Moray police step up drugs patrols

POLICE in Moray have launched a week-long operation of targeted action to further crack down on the sale and supply of illegal drugs.

Increased visible patrols, proactive enquiries and road checks will be carried out this week as part of ongoing efforts. Specialist officers, including dog handlers and road policing officers, will assist local officers, as well as a team of special constables.

Sergeant Dave Cooper, who is leading the operation, issued a sharp warning to those involved in dealing drugs and "bringing misery to communities".

He said: "Bringing offenders to court, recovering illegal substances and disrupting those who distribute them is day-to-day business for local community policing teams in Moray.

"However, increased, targeted action like this should send a very clear message that this type of illegal and harmful activity will not be tolerated and that we are committed to tackling the issue.

"As well as carrying out enforcement action, protecting vulnerable people who are affected by this type of crime is also key. That is why we work in conjunction with our partners to ensure there is a holistic approach to substance abuse. It is crucial to identify the people who will engage with us so we can divert them away from this type of activity, in particular the young and more impressionable.

"If you think you can get away with dealing drugs and bringing misery to our communities – think again.

"We can’t do this alone though, and rely on intelligence from members of the public to identify and target the properties and people who pose most risk."

Anyone with information or concerns on the issue can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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