ON THE BEAT Stay alert and help to nab the drug dealers
Cops will monitor speeding concerns at Shotts
Since I last time had the opportunity to speak with you there have been many changes and long- awaited improvements to the roads network in and around the Shotts area with the completion of the bridge work and the reopening of Benhar Road.
Last week I attended Shotts Community Council meeting where the reopening of Benhar Road was discussed. A number of members were concerned about the speed of vehicles travelling south on the B741 past the ambulance depot towards the new bridge.
I am currently monitoring this situation and will liaise with my traffic colleagues should their involvement be required with regards to reinforcing the 30mph speed restriction.
However, I am sure you will be aware that the railway bridge on Station Road requires similar work to carried out with the time frame for completion being a number of months. I will keep you updated as and when I have accurate details from Network Rail.
Drugs are a scourge which causes endless misery to families in every community and unfortunately my ward area is no exception. There is an undeniable and distinct correlation for drug abusers to commit crime to finance their habit which impacts on us all.
Over the last five years or so our communities have seen a significant increase in individuals cultivating their own cannabis either for their own use or for dealing purposes. We have had a lot of success recently in detecting such crimes and work closely with our partners in the local housing pursing individuals who are convicted with a view to evicting them.
The following are trigger points which may evidence that cannabis is being cultivated within a property. Equipment: ventilation equipment, ducting lighting equipment, grow bags soil being taken in or removed.
Absence: tenants or householders being absent from the premises for long periods of time coming and going at unusual times often during the night.
Lighting: bright lights the noise of fans whirring blacked out / covered up windows, condensation on windows. Heat:- unusual levels of heat due to lighting. Smell: distinctive strong sickly smell. Electricity Meter being bypassed: The lighting and fans use excessive levels of electricity and as a result the meter is often bypassed in a dangerous way leading to a fire risk.
Can I appeal that if anyone thinks they know of a property or premises where a cultivation is then please contact the police by calling 101. You can remain anonymous if you wish or contact the Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111. Thank you for your continued help and assistance.