By Adam Evans
Three men have been arrested after police investigating the INLA searched a number of houses in Derry Londonderry.
Cannabis, cash and items linked to the dissident republican group were found this morning.
The suspects - aged 30, 36 and 44 are being questioned at Musgrave Serious Crime Suite.
Detective Inspector Lynne Knox said: “We are committed to protecting communities across Northern Ireland. Many areas face challenges from organised criminal gangs with paramilitary connections. Those who are involved in this type of criminality do not represent the interests of the community. We are committed to keeping people safe and will continue to work in partnership with local agencies, residents and community representatives to prevent and detect crime.
“Information from members of the public is absolutely vital in tackling serious crime and I would appeal to anyone who has any information to call police on the non-emergency number 101. 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.”
The Police Service of Northern Ireland, HM Revenue & Customs and the National Crime Agency have established the Paramilitary Crime Task Force to tackle criminality linked to paramilitarism as part of the Executive’s action plan on tackling paramilitary activity, criminality and organised crime.