Obtaining illegal drugs ‘becoming easier’ – top cop

TAYSIDE’S top policeman has warned it is becoming easier to get illegal drugs in Dundee and Perth.

Chief Superintendent Andy Todd said a massive rise in the number of recorded crimes of possession indicated a greater number of illicit substances are now readily available on city streets.

Drugs including cocaine, heroin, diazepam and cannabis have been seized by police this year.

His comments come just days after the publication of Dundee Drugs Commission’s report into tackling substance abuse in the city.

According to Police Scotland figures, there were 221 recorded crimes of drug possession in Dundee in 2018-19.

Just five months into the 201920 financial year there have already been 337 recorded crimes of possession – an increase of 52%.

The figure is also above the five-year average of 224.2 crimes of possession.

The number of crimes of possession has also more than doubled in Perth and Kinross, from 78 last year to more than 178 so far in 2019-20.

Angus is, so far, bucking the trend as the number of crimes has fallen from 81 to 67.

Ch Supt Todd said: “The number of possessions is up by 116 compared to the same time last year.

“That is not a reflection of any increase in stop and search. It is usually an indication of more drugs in the city and individuals we come into contact with have more in their possession.”

He added that the force would continue to “aggressively pursue” those who profit from the supply and sale of illegal drugs.

There were 66 drug-related fatalities in Dundee last year.