A Historic Crackdown on Illegal Drugs
UK Border Force’s Record-Breaking Seizures
The UK’s Border Force has achieved a significant milestone in the fight against illegal drugs. In the year ending March 2023, they recorded a staggering 25,834 drug seizures. This marks a 24% increase from the previous year and is the highest number of seizures since records began. This monumental achievement underscores the unwavering commitment of the UK authorities to combat drug trafficking and protect communities.
Escalating War Against Drug Trafficking
Massive Surge in Seized Illegal Substances
The sheer volume of illegal drugs intercepted is astonishing. Over 92 tonnes of narcotics were seized by police and Border Force, the highest volume recorded since 2003/4. This includes significant quantities of so-called party drugs like cocaine and ketamine. The total quantity of cocaine seized doubled to 3.36 tonnes, while ketamine confiscations surged by 189% to 500kg.
Cocaine: A Prime Target for Seizures
Border Force’s Exceptional Success in Cocaine Interception
Border Force has shown exceptional proficiency in intercepting cocaine, with over 15 tonnes seized last year alone. This success is attributed to intelligence-led operations that have consistently enabled the seizure of over 9 tonnes of cocaine annually for the past three years.
Appreciating the Frontline Heroes
Minister’s Visit to Stansted Airport Border Force
Recognizing the efforts of Border Force officers, Minister for Legal Migration Tom Pursglove is visiting Stansted Airport to extend his gratitude for their dedication to breaking drug supply chains. This visit highlights the government’s appreciation for those who work tirelessly to prevent harmful substances from entering the UK.
Government’s Firm Stance Against Drugs
Zero-Tolerance Policy and Record Seizures
The UK government maintains a zero-tolerance approach to illegal drug use, as echoed by Minister Pursglove. The record level of seizures is a testament to the relentless efforts of the police and Border Force to keep illegal drugs off the streets.
Herbal Cannabis: A Rising Concern
Significant Increase in Seizures
Notably, there has been a 96% increase in the seizure of herbal cannabis compared to the previous year. This is indicative of the evolving challenges in drug trafficking and the adaptability of law enforcement agencies in responding to these changes.
Collaborative Efforts Yield Success
Partnership Among Agencies and International Allies
The success in drug seizures is a result of collaborative efforts between the police, Border Force, National Crime Agency, and international partners. Utilizing intelligence and technology, these organizations work in unison to safeguard borders, thwart drug trafficking, and bring perpetrators to justice.
Investing in a Safer Future
Government’s 10-Year Drugs Strategy
The government’s 10-year drugs strategy, backed by a record £3 billion funding, is central to tackling the supply of illicit drugs. This strategy aims for relentless policing action and the establishment of a world-class system of treatment and recovery to transform lives and prevent crime.
A Resolute Approach to Crime Prevention
Minister Chris Philp’s Commitment to Disrupting Criminal Enterprises
Minister for Crime, Policing, and Fire Chris Philp reiterates the government’s commitment to disrupting criminal enterprises and taking a zero-tolerance approach to both the supply and possession of illegal drugs. The impressive statistics of drug seizures send a strong message to criminals about the consequences of their actions.
Making Strides in Organised Crime Disruption
Since April 2022, law enforcement has successfully disrupted over 4,500 organised crime groups and closed over 2,000 county lines, surpassing the three-year target 18 months early. Additionally, over 50,000 drug tests on arrested suspects have facilitated their diversion into life-changing treatment.
Investing in Treatment and Recovery
Building a Comprehensive Treatment System
The drugs strategy also allocates £780 million towards developing a world-class treatment system, which is vital in breaking the cycle of crime. The government has bolstered the drug and alcohol treatment workforce with 1,670 additional staff and established 106 new Combating Drugs Partnerships across England.
Sources: THX News, Home Office, Border Force, Tom Pursglove MP, & The Rt Hon Chris Philp MP.
