Month: February 2023

In November 2022, the Paramilitary Crime Task Force, supported by local police and criminal justice partners, carried out a significant operation into suspected paramilitary activity linked to the East Belfast UVF over a two-day period.

Eight firearms, a large quantity of assorted ammunition, three viable pipe bombs, balaclavas and UVF flags and emblems were seized along with two vehicles. Four men were arrested and have since been charged with a number of offences including possession of a firearm and ammunition with intent to endanger life, possession of a firearm and ammunition in suspicious circumstances and possession of articles for use in terrorism. All four were also reported to the Public Prosecution Service for the offence of membership of a proscribed organisation.

Detective Inspector Maguire from PCTF said: “This was a significant operation which has resulted in a number of firearms being taken out of the community. Paramilitary gangs coerce and control communities, often through violent means. We are determined to work with communities to help keep them safe and end this harm.”

Paramilitary Crime Task Force 2022 Totals 

The Police Service have presented a cheque for over £1,500 to the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice. The money was raised from the auctioning of vehicles, which were seized by officers from the Paramilitary Crime Task Force (PCTF).

Detective Chief Superintendent Andy Hill, Head of Organised Crime Branch, said: “Paramilitaries make a living from crime, using a regime of fear and violence to exercise control over the most vulnerable in our society.

“We, along with our partner organisations, are committed to tackling such criminal activities, from money lending to drug dealing, and their harrowing effects. We had a heartening opportunity to turn something negative, in the form of assets linked with crime, into something really positive.”