Cannabis factory discovered as Police officer assaulted

A SIGNIFICANT cannabis factory was discovered in Coalisland during the early hours of Saturday morning after a police officer was attacked by suspected burglars

When police officers attended a suspected burglary in progress at an address on Dungannon Road at around 12:50am, two male suspects were located in the vicinity. As police attempted to detain one of the suspects, a male officer was punched.

As part of follow-up enquiries, a search of a property at an address in Coalisland was carried out where a suspected cannabis factory and a quantity of suspected Class B drugs, with an estimated street value of almost £17,000, was seized. Other items, including drug-related paraphernalia, were also taken to be examined.

Two males, age 42 and 41 were arrested on suspicion of offences, including burglary, handling stolen goods, possession of a Class B controlled drug and cultivating cannabis.

The 41-year-old was also being questioned in relation to assault and resisting police. On going to press both men remain in custody.

The officer who was assaulted was taken to hospital as a precaution and was expected to return to duty over the weekend.

‘Completely unacceptable’

A PSNI spokesperson stated, “What happened to our officer must be condemned. Our colleague was working to keep people safe when he was assaulted. It’s completely unacceptable and must never be tolerated.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank the member of public who made the report about the suspected burglary in progress to us. I would also take this opportunity to encourage anyone who sees any unusual or suspicious activity in their area to call us.”

Police are appealing to anyone who may have been in the Dungannon Road area around 12:45am to 12:50am and saw any suspicious activity to call 101, and quote reference number 77 of 17/04/21.

A report can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

Alternatively, information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.