'Large sum' forfeiture awarded following investigation into drug-related criminality

AT a hearing at Dungannon Magistrates’ Court yesterday, Wednesday, March 11, a forfeiture of £52,755.26 was awarded in favour of the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

Both Fermanagh and Omagh District Support Team and Economic Crime Branch were involved in the ongoing investigation into a group operating in the Enniskillen area who were suspected of drug-related criminality.

Inspector Gary Irvine said: “After a number of suspicious vehicles were seized in the town in June 2024, officers carried out a subsequent search at the Armagh home of 37-year-old Peadair O'Maldomnaigh.

“The large sum was seized in Euro cash alongside other items and O'Maldomnaigh offered no explanation for the source of this income.

“On Wednesday, his legal representative indicated that the forfeiture of cash would not be contested.”

Inspector Irvine continued: “Your district support team are committed to pursuing all those involved in criminal activity, sending a clear message that crime doesn’t pay.

“This forfeiture has been made possible with the support of the local community. I would appeal to the public to continue to provide information on those they suspect to be living a criminally-funded lifestyle so we can investigate. We will deprive criminals of their cash and use it for a better purpose.”