Drugs crime impact on community examined

Ministers are to consider the recommendations of a study into serious organised crime (SOC) which cited the impact of illicit drugs on communities as its main concern.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said the report, which took 18 months to compile, would help to inform how the Scottish Government can support and protect people affected by SOC.

Researchers stated that the “harmful consequences” of the illicit drugs market on communities was the primary area of concern identified.

One in 10 people have personally been affected by SOC in the past three years, according to an Ipsos Mori survey.

The survey also highlighted a “growing awareness” that everyone has a role in tackling the issue.

Mr Matheson, who was due to attend an SOC taskforce at the Scottish Crime Campus in Gartcosh, North Lanarkshire, said: “Recent high-profile convictions of people involved in organised crime, supported by strong partnership work at the Crime Campus, send a clear message that Scotland is a hostile environment for those who prey on our communities.

“This in-depth report offers personal perspectives on the effects of organised crime locally, particularly on the vulnerable.”

The study makes recommendations to tackle SOC, including strengthening links between local services, particularly housing and social work, to help prevent the exploitation of vulnerable residents.

It suggests developing community resources and local policing to support community intelligence-gathering.

The study also recommends legislation offering greater powers to respond to exploitation and a new criminal offence of “coercive control”.

Researcher Dr Niall Hamiltonsmith, senior lecturer at Stirling University, added: “Tackling serious organised crime can no longer be seen as principally a policing issue.”

Michael Matheson.