The availability, use and sale of illegal drugs remains one of the biggest challenges facing the PSNI, SDLP West Tyrone MLA Joe Byrne has said.
Mr Byrne was speaking after it emerged police seized over £2 million worth of drugs in G District which covers the Foyle, Limavady, Strabane and Magherafelt areas – including the discovery of £40,000 worth of Cannabis in Strabane.
Mr Byrne said: “People living in communities throughout the North will know that the availability of drugs has become an even more serious issue over the last number of years.
He added while it was “good news” that more and more of these drugs were being found, he encouraged members of the public with concerns about drugs to contact police.
Mr Byrne said: “I want to commend the PSNI for their successes, it points to a wider problem in the trafficking and distribution of illegal drugs on our island.
“Make no mistake about it, the use of drugs has brought misery and heartache to our area and to other areas across the North.
“It has broken communities, devastated families and claimed lives. It is absolutely imperative that we take action to address it.
“I want to welcome the renewed focus on drugs crimes from the PSNI. I’m aware of a new regional campaign specifically targeting cannabis factories.
“Local police will be handing out cards that allow the public to acquaint themselves with the signs of a drugs house. I would appeal to people to familiarise themselves with these and if they have any concerns to report it to the police immediately.”
Mr Byrne concluded: “We all have a role to play in saving our communities from the dangers of drug abuse. It’s important that we face up to that and do all we can.”
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