Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Organised Crime Branch have arrested five men and seized a substantial quantity of suspected Class A and B drugs during a proactive operation targeting drugs criminality in the Greater Belfast area on Monday 10 and Tuesday 11 August.

Approximately 14kg of suspected cocaine, with an estimated street value of £1,120,000, was recovered alongside suspected herbal cannabis worth about £15,000. Enquiries into the seizures are ongoing.

Five men, aged 26, 27, 33, 34 and 59, were detained on suspicion of a number of offences, including possession of Class A and Class B controlled drugs with intent to supply. All remain in custody at this time. Detective Inspector Miskelly said: "Families across Belfast do not want to see the lives of their young people and loved ones blighted by drugs. We know that drugs bring harm and control into communities, and only benefit those lining their pockets at the expense of others and the wider community.

"Anyone tempted to become involved in illegal drugs should be under no illusion; we will seek to identify them, arrest them and place them before the courts. I would also like to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone with any information about suspected drug dealing in their area to call the non-emergency number 101."

Information can also be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.