A former managing director with the Magherafelt-based Lees Group of Companies, already awaiting sentence for theft and fraud, yesterday admitted involvement in a massive drug-smuggling operation in the Republic.
Colin Lees (47), of The Clachan, Hospital Road, Magherafelt, pleaded guilty with Samuel Adams (46), from Abbeydale Park, Belfast, to having 1.7 tonnes of cannabis resin in the Republic between September 1st and November 2nd, 1996, for sale or supply.
Both men also pleaded guilty at Belfast Crown Court to importing the drugs into the Republic between the same dates. Lees is already awaiting sentence for fraud and theft involving his own company of nearly £20 million.