Drug crime targeted in crackdown

Published on 01/02/2013 12:26

DRUG crime is to be targeted under a community-focused crackdown by police.

Detectives at Lothian and Borders Police said Operation Ergot would use information from local communities to identify dealers distributing drugs in Musselburgh.

They said a number of searches had already been carried out after intelligence was received that properties in the area were being used for deals.

On January 29, a man was arrested and charged after officers recovered almost £2,000 worth of cannabis, along with small quantities of Amphetamine and Diazepam, at an address in Gardiner Road, Prestonpans.

The 43-year-old is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

Another address in Muirpark Road, Tranent, was searched on January 30, with personal amounts of cannabis seized. Police are still searching for the occupier.

Operation lead Sergeant Derek MacDonald said: “The information we receive from the public may relate to dealers exporting large quantities of drugs from their homes, or it might be about lower-level drug crime.

“Nevertheless, these matters have a negative impact on our communities and we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.

“Operation Ergot will continue to operate throughout East Lothian and any information we receive will be dealt with in the strictest confidence and acted upon accordingly.”

“Anyone wishing to report drug related criminal activity can do so by contacting their local policing team, or alternatively, via the charity Crimestoppers in complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.”