Operation Ultraviolet Throws Spotlight on Dealers in Community
Thursday, 12th February 2009
A series of raids targeting drug dealers operating in the heart of Central Scotland communities have been conducted.
Twelve addresses across Clackmannanshire, Stirling and Falkirk Area Commands were searched as part of Operation Ultraviolet and more than 20 people are now facing 100-plus charges in relation to drug supply and possession.
The enforcement action was taken by police in partnership with health agencies and voluntary sector groups whose aim is to encourage anyone seeking routes out of drug abuse to find help.
The raids were the force's response to a series of incidents in recent months involving near-miss overdoses and a number of fatalities in 2008 linked to drug taking. There were five confirmed fatal drug overdoses last year in Central Scotland and toxicology results are awaited for nine others. There were 95 known incidents of overdoses which resulted in drug users being resuscitated since October 2007. Heroin was the most commonly used drug in many of these cases.
Quantities of heroin and other drugs were recovered during the raids which took place in Alva, Tillicoultry, Sauchie, Tullibody, Cambus, Stirling, Bannockburn, Falkirk and Camelon. Heroin and cannabis were recovered along with cash during the three day operation.
Chief Constable Kevin Smith said: "Drug dealing is about earning money on the back of the misery of others caused by addiction. The abuse of illegal drugs like heroin, as we have seen in this area, has led to the loss of life and in other cases has come within moments of someone dying. These are the results of dealing activity.
"Each person who loses their life to drugs is someone's son or daughter - that's the true and very sad cost of this criminal activity to families and communities. That's what Central Scotland Police is absolutely committed to stopping in conjunction with our partners, through rigorous enforcement as well as intervention."
Detective Superintendent David Wilson, head of CID for Central Scotland Police, said: "Despite the emergence of other drugs like cocaine in our communities, heroin abuse has remained a real problem. We constantly monitor the drug market profile in Central Scotland and respond to patterns and trends as well as the ever-changing intelligence picture.
"The heroin market can experience fluctuation because there are differences in quality and purity across the force. We work closely with partners to react to changes on the ground and with law enforcement organisations on a wider basis so we are aware of the bigger picture as it impacts on Central Scotland."
Fiona Mackenzie, NHS Forth Valley Chief Executive and chair of the Forth Valley Substance Action Team, said: "Forth Valley SAT is committed to working with our partners to reduce the health and social harm caused by substance misuse. We have a wide range of services to support those affected by drugs and alcohol, and their families. Reducing the availability of illegal drugs is vital and we value the role which the police play in supporting our remit."
Jackie Johnston, of voluntary sector treatment service Signpost Recovery, said: "We are delighted as always to be working with Central Scotland Police to ensure that every aspect of the misery caused by substance misuse is tackled."
