£400k DRUG HAUL
MASSIVE STASH OF FAKE VALIUM SEIZED AS POLICE SWOOP ON HOUSE
Families in a sleepy village have been left stunned after drugs cops discovered a fake Valium factory in their street.
Teams of cops swooped on a semi- detached property in Howwood before recovering around £400,000 worth of pills believed to be etizolam and an operational pill press.
Yesterday afternoon, stunned villagers in Earlshill Drive spoke of their shock following the massive drugs bust.
One woman, who asked not to be named, told the Paisley Daily
Express: “We are just back from our holiday and we’ve come back to this. It’s absolutely shocking really.
“This is just a really quiet street. The neighbours are all nice. You honestly wouldn’t expect this at all.
“It’s all families here and there are a few police officers in the street too.”
Another neighbour explained that he hadn’t seen anything suspicious. I had not seen anything. They keep themselves to themselves.
“I’m quite shocked actually, that it happened here. I think they rented that house about a year ago.” he added.
Detective Inspector John Stewart, of Paisley CID, said Thursday afternoon’s operation was part of ongoing efforts to keep drugs off Renfrewshire’s streets.
He explained: “We have recovered more than £400,000 worth of drugs and have arrested three people.
“Police Scotland is committed to reducing the tragic impact of drugs on individuals, families and communities in Scotland and information from members of the public is absolutely vital in our efforts to do this.
“As a result of the support of the community, we have managed to take a significant haul of drugs off the streets.
“We recognise the value and importance of prevention and effective partnership engagement and work closely with partners including NHS, Education, Alcohol and Drug Partnerships and drug charities to raise awareness about substance use and associated harms which supports our prevention work in schools and communities.
“Those who supply drugs have absolutely no place in our community and through partnership working, and with the support of local communities, we will do everything we can do identify their criminal activities and bring them to justice in the aim of making Scotland a safer place.
“Anyone with information regarding drugs activity in their area is urged to contact Police Scotland via 101. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.”
Two men aged 27 and 29, and one woman aged 27 have been arrested and charged in connection with alleged drugs offences.
All three are expected to appear at Paisley Sheriff Court of Monday.