CRACK COCAINE SEIZURES DOUBLE IN A YEAR

Police and customs are seizing more heroin and crack than ever but the
quantity of cocaine intercepted has fallen dramatically, according to new
figures.

In 2001, nearly 8,600lb of heroin was recovered along with 123lb of crack -
double the amount the previous year. However, the quantity of cocaine that
was impounded fell by more than a quarter to 6,265lbs, the lowest level for
six years.

Overall, there was a 10 per cent increase in the seizure of Class A drugs,
including LSD and ecstasy.

Cannabis still accounts for the vast bulk of all drug seizures and is
likely to continue to do so. The Government has delayed the
reclassification of the drug from a Class B to Class C substance but even
when it is downgraded, it will remain illegal and open to confiscation.

In 2001, nearly 27 metric tons of herbal cannabis, 59 metric tons of
cannabis resin and more than 71,000 cannabis plants were seized.