Two in court over £500,000 drugs

The men were arrested at the weekend

Two Ballymena men have appeared in court on drugs charges following the police seizure of £500,000 of cannabis in County Armagh at the weekend.

Edward Bamber, 41, of Grange Avenue was charged with importing, possession and intent to supply cannabis.

George Courtney, 27, of Royal Court, Gracehill, was charged with importation and intent to supply cannabis.

Both men spoke only to confirm they understood the charges and were remanded in custody.

A police constable said he believed he could connect both men to the charges.

The pair were arrested on Saturday after a cross-border police operation.

Mr Bamber was detained in the Lisburn area and Mr Courtney in County Armagh.

Gardai arrested a third man, aged in his 20s, in the Monaghan area. A large amount of money was also recovered.