Two men are due to appear at Lisburn Magistrates Court today, Monday 12th May, charged with a number of drug-related offences following the discovery of a sophisticated cannabis factory in Blackwatertown, Co. Armagh.

The men, aged 54 and 43, were arrested in the early hours of Sunday, 11th May, after police uncovered the operation at a residential property in the Main Street area of the village.

Both men have been charged with cultivating cannabis, possession of a Class B controlled drug, and possession of a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply. The 43-year-old also faces a charge of dishonestly using electricity. As is normal procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

The discovery was made after local policing officers were initially in the area dealing with a report of a driver believed to be under the influence. Detective Sergeant Dougherty from Serious Crime Branch, who is now leading the investigation, explained how the events unfolded.

"Officers were in the area dealing with a report of a driver believed to be under the influence. Whilst searching for the driver, who had abandoned the vehicle prior to police arrival, they noted extremely loud music emanating from a residential property in the Main Street area," he said. "They attended the home to ask the occupants to turn down the music. The officers' suspicions were raised by the behaviour of those inside. Permission was given for police to enter the property and a strong smell of cannabis was noted. Upon searching the property, officers located a total of approximately 200 cannabis plants alongside a number of vacuum sealed bags of cannabis buds, a large sum of cash, and drug-related paraphernalia."

Detective Sergeant Dougherty added: "It was also noted that the electricity meter board had been tampered with and the supply bypassed."

Both men were arrested at the scene and remained in custody while enquiries continued, leading to the subsequent charges.

"Thanks to these observant officers, a substantial quantity of drugs has been prevented from reaching our streets and what appears to be a well-organised operation has been dismantled," Detective Sergeant Dougherty stated. "Targeting drugs supply is a priority for the Police Service of Northern Ireland. We are committed to tackling the scourge of illicit drugs, and will continue to investigate all those who profit from the misery and harm they cause our community."

Police are appealing for further information. "Our investigation into this discovery is ongoing, and I would ask any member of the public who has any information which could be of assistance to police to contact the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 23 of 11/05/25," said Detective Sergeant Dougherty.

"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."