Drugs Campaign Launched To Tackle Street-Level Dealing

A new multi-media campaign aimed at tackling street-level drug dealing has been launched today, 13 March.

The initiative, a PSNI partnership with the local Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) and Crimestoppers, got underway in Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon today.

The project will run for two weeks, using outdoor advertising to raise awareness of the resources available to members of the public to report concerns they have about crime in their community.

Jon Burrows, Chief Inspector for the area, said: "Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon are areas which have strong community values, where residents want to live in a safe environment. This initiative is about empowering communities to make areas safer, reducing the threat posed by street-level drugs and dealing with offenders.

"In order to tackle this type of criminality, it is imperative we get information from the community. Those involved in drug dealing bring misery and heartache to the areas they operate, with complete disregard to the lives they destroy. This advertising campaign shows the various methods of reporting criminal activity both through policing channels and also anonymously. Crimestoppers plays a vital role in reducing the fear of speaking out against those intent on causing hurt and harm.

"The Police Service of Northern Ireland will continue to disrupt and arrest drug dealers involved in the sale and supply of drugs and work with communities and partner agencies to reduce the threat of harmful and illegal activity. We would ask everyone for their support and co-operation in tackling this problem through the criminal justice system.

"Our message is clear and simple; if you see or know anyone who is dealing drugs in your local area, then contact the police on 101 or alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Councillor Joe Nelson, Chair of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon PCSP added: "We are committed to highlighting the impact of drugs on our communities, our ultimate aim is to give confidence to communities to report drug dealing and make our cities and towns safer places for everyone. We can all play a part in stopping it by reporting drug dealers. We also want those taking drugs, their families or friends, to seek support from local services to make changes before it's too late."



(JG/CM)