Two men have been handed prison sentences at Laganside Crown Court, for their roles in drug-related offences. The sentencings follow a significant police operation in County Tyrone in 2024.

Thomas Taggart, 39, received a sentence of six years and six months after pleading guilty to possession of a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply. Barry McMoran, 50, was sentenced to 12 years after entering guilty pleas for being concerned in the supply of Class A and Class B controlled drugs, as well as possession of a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply. Both men will serve half of their respective terms in custody and the remainder on licence.

The investigation began in May 2024 when police searched a shed in the Annaghnaboe Road area of Coalisland. During the search, officers recovered more than 200kg of cannabis resin. Subsequent enquiries established that the drugs had been brought into Northern Ireland via a ferry from Scotland. The illicit cargo was transported in a trailer towed by a vehicle driven by Taggart, while McMoran followed in an accompanying vehicle. A forensic examination of a mobile phone belonging to McMoran further linked him to the distribution of cocaine.

A spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland stated: "The Police Service of Northern Ireland remains committed to robustly and proactively pursuing those involved in drug supply, at all levels, arresting them and bringing them before the courts.

"If anyone has information about suspected drug dealing in their area please call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively information can be given anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

"Anyone who thinks they might have a problem with alcohol and/or drugs and would like to get help can visit www.drugsandalcoholni.info. This also includes details of services available for those affected by someone else’s drinking and/or drug misuse."