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Man, 53, appears in court over £1.4m cocaine seizure in Co Down

Newry Magistrates Court
The accused appeared at Newry Magistrates Court this morning

A 53-year-old man has appeared in court charged in connection with a £1.4 million cocaine seizure in Co Down.

David Kelly of Mourne Drive in Warrenpoint was arrested yesterday following the search of a house at Mourne Drive.

Cocaine, cash and other drugs paraphernalia was recovered.

Police said the cocaine had a street value of £1.4m.

The accused faces five charges. He has been charged with supplying cocaine in October 2025. He has also been charged with possessing cocaine, having the drug with intent to supply, possessing criminal property and possessing cannabis.

These alleged offences are dated to April this year.

Mr Kelly was brought into the dock on crutches. He waved to a number of supporters in the public gallery.

A prosecutor told the court that in October 2025 a vehicle had been stopped and a "significant amount" of cocaine found on board.

It was sent for forensic analysis which it is alleged established a link to the defendant.

Police arrived at his home early yesterday morning, arrested him and conducted a search.

They found drugs, cash, digital scales and a mobile phone. Cash was also found on the defendant's person.

Under the stairs in a "large black plastic tub" police found 12 bars sealed in clear plastic.

The court was told preliminary tests had indicated cocaine and the street value had been estimated at £1.4m.

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The court heard Mr Kelly had made no reply during a number of police interviews.

A defence solicitor said there would be no application for bail today.

Mr Kelly was remanded in custody to appear again by video link on 29 April at which time a bail application will be made.