Officers in North Belfast conducted 23 house searches over the fortnight, resulting in the recovery of 6kg of suspected cannabis, suspected MDMA tablets, and £3,000 worth of suspected cannabis oil.

In addition to the drugs and cash, police seized an estimated £20,000 worth of cigarettes and alcohol believed to be intended for illegal sale.

Two men and a woman, all in their 30s, were arrested during the operation on suspicion of several offences, including possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs, possession of criminal property, and evading excise duty.

A 39-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman were subsequently charged with a string of offences, including:

• Possession of Class A and Class B controlled drugs.

• Possession of Class A and Class B drugs with intent to supply.

• Possession and concealment of criminal property.

• Evading excise duty and VAT.

The pair were expected to appear before Belfast Magistrate's Court on 11th March. A second man, aged 34, has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Inspector Matthew Adams emphasised the impact of drug criminality on the wider community and the healthcare system. He said: "Abuse of drugs causes a huge burden for our health service providers and ultimately, could lead to death.

"These searches, arrests and recovery of drugs demonstrates the Police Service of Northern Ireland's commitment to protecting our community from drug suppliers and to actively pursuing those involved in drugs criminality."

The PSNI is urging anyone with information regarding drug dealing or misuse to contact the non-emergency number 101, or to submit a report online via psni.police.uk/report. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Individuals seeking help for drug or alcohol addiction, or those affected by someone else's substance misuse, can find details of local support services at www.drugsandalcoholni.info.