Police release suspect but say drug probe remains on track

Police have released one of three people whose pre-trial detention was extended on Friday in an investigation into drug sales and distribution and money laundering, mbl.is reports. Two people remain in custody.

Six people were remanded in custody on Tuesday, but three were released on Friday. Detention for two of the remaining three was extended until Friday, while the third person was held until Monday. That person has now been released.

Seventeen people were arrested in a large police operation last week. Police also searched several locations and seized material for the investigation.

Ævar Pálmi Pálmason, an assistant chief superintendent with the police, said the fact that only two of the 17 arrested remain in custody does not mean the investigation is failing to make progress. He said detention is a coercive measure that must be used with care, and investigators had not considered further detention necessary for those released or not remanded.

Asked whether police were satisfied with the results of the interrogations, Ævar Pálmi said that could be said, while stressing again that detention must be used cautiously. He said police had gathered information through various means, including other investigations, before last week’s operation. The interrogations and searches were intended to obtain evidence that could clarify specific points.