Joint crackdown on crime begins with drug raids

GRAMPIAN Police yesterday launched a crackdown on drug trafficking, violence and anti- social behaviour in an offensive involving the region's fire service and health authority.

In the first phase of Operation Maple, specialist teams carried raids at addresses throughout Aberdeen. But the crackdown will also involve Grampian Fire and Rescue Service tackling incidents of wilful fire-raising in the area, while NHS Grampian will be promoting drug treatment services available in the city.

Chief Superintendent Adrian Watson, the Aberdeen division commander of Grampian Police, said Operation Maple had been launched in response to feedback from residents. "This is not only one of the largest enforcement operations that Grampian Police has ever undertaken, but it is also committed to a whole-system approach," he said.

"We've shared information with our colleagues in the other services on where our challenges lie in the city. Now we're working together to reduce the problems of drink and drug abuse, anti-social behaviour and violence."

Chief Supt Watson stressed: "No one agency can do this alone and there is always the temptation in these financially difficult times to withdraw into our organisational silos. But Operation Maple is a clear illustration of how we can share expertise and resources to achieve our common purpose across the city and the North-east of Scotland."