DRUG OFFENCES UP IN 2003

Drug offences nearly doubled in Estevan in 2003, according to the
annual report of the Estevan Police Service.

"We're no worse than any other city," was the response from police
Chief Peter MacKinnon when asked to comment on the report's figures.
"We're aware of the activity in the city, and we're addressing it."

MacKinnon said one reason for the higher numbers could be the result
of a higher level of enforcement and intelligenence gathering.

He said as a result of investigations, more charges are being laid
against people who are involved in trafficking and
distribution.

The police service report showed there were 54 drug offences in 2003
compared to 28 in 2002, 23 in 2001 and only 19 in 2000.