Police infiltrating organised crime gangs

More than 40 organised crime gangs in Northern Ireland have been infiltrated during the last year, it emerged today.

As new plans for combating racketeers were unveiled, police chiefs disclosed their successes over the past 12 months.

Assistant Chief Constable Chris Albiston said: ‘‘As a direct result of law enforcement activity 42 organised crime networks have been either disrupted or dismantled.’’

Mr Albiston also pointed out that half of all gangsters now operating in the province had no links with paramilitary organisations.

The police chief highlighted the ongoing efforts at the launch of the Organised Crime Task Force’s second annual threat assessment and strategy.

The multi-agency body, consisting of customs, police, the Northern Ireland Office and Inland Revenue, was formed to tackle gangsters plundering millions from the province’s economy.

Secretary of State John Reid warned the criminals that tough new laws will clamp down on their activities.

He said: ‘‘Our grip is tightening on organised crime and no effort will be spared in the fight against the tyranny of gangsterism in Northern Ireland.

‘‘As encouraging as this year has been, let no-one be in any doubt that we are in for the long haul.’’