More than £200,000 seized as PSNI targets organised crime networks across Northern Ireland

Police have revealed that more than £200,000 in cash was seized during a series of operations targeting organised criminal networks using road, rail and port routes across Northern Ireland.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland participated in Operation Lockstream, a nationwide initiative involving law enforcement and other agencies.

The operation included searches in Belfast, Cushendall and Fermanagh, alongside checks on commercial vehicles and transport activity.

More than £170,000 discovered in Belfast vehicle

During activity carried out between 21 and 27 September, officers worked with the National Crime Agency to search a vehicle in the Belfast area.

Police discovered more than £170,000 in cash concealed inside the vehicle.

A 36-year-old man was arrested and subsequently charged with possession of criminal property.

He appeared before Belfast Magistrates’ Court on 25 September 2026.

Police also reported that a 19-year-old man was arrested in the Belfast area for illegal entry into the United Kingdom and referred to Home Office Enforcement.

Further cash seized in Cushendall

On 30 September, police searched two properties in Cushendall and seized almost £50,000 in cash.

Officers also recovered 35 kilograms of rolling tobacco, 2,400 cigarettes and five mobile phones.

Earlier activity in Fermanagh involved searches at six commercial premises and engagement with drivers and businesses.

HM Revenue and Customs officers seized suspected illicit fuel during that operation.

Additional searches took place in the Newry area on 19 October.

PSNI warns about organised criminal networks

Detective Chief Inspector Shaw said the operation was intended to disrupt criminal groups seeking to exploit transport networks and the Common Travel Area.

Police said intelligence gathered during the operations would support continuing investigations into organised criminality, including drug supply.

The PSNI has encouraged anyone with information about suspected organised crime to contact police on 101 or report concerns anonymously to Crimestoppers.

Investigations arising from the operation remain ongoing.

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