Man, 39, charged after £210k drug seizure

A 39-year-old Coatbridge man has been charged after £210,000 worth of drugs were seized during a morning police raid.

Officers from the Coatbridge communities investigation unit – acting under a warrant – found quantities of cocaine, heroin, cannabis and diazepam during a search of a house on Cliftonville Court, in the town, at 10.35am last Wednesday, October 5.

Officers arrested John Paul Fallon, who lives at the property, and detained him in custody in connection with the recovery of the Class A, B and C drugs, along with a quantity of cash and two electronic tasers.

Fallon appeared at Airdrie Sheriff Court last Thursday charged with being concerned in the supply of heroin, cocaine, diazepam, cannabis and herbal cannabis and possession of the tasers.

While in the dock, Fallon made no plea or declaration to any of the charges and presiding sheriff Sara Matheson granted a warrant to imprison him at Addiewell for further examination ahead of his return to court.

Monklands’top cop, Chief Inspector Gavin Russell, hailed the response of his officers in seizing the drugs and taking the five-figure sum of potentially harmful substances off the streets.

He told the Advertiser: “This is a fantastic recovery of controlled drugs and weapons by my staff that would otherwise present a danger to the public.

“My officers will continue to take action against such individuals to protect the public from potential use and danger.”

Those who suspect anyone of drug dealing or possession can contact the anonymous hotline Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or Airdrie or Coatbridge police by calling 101.

Fantastic recovery of drugs & weapons that would present a danger to the public Ch Insp Russell