SCOTTISH DRUG AGENCY'S HAUL SOARS

Hard drug seizures soared by 68 per cent in Scotland last year to a total
value of UKP20m.

In only the second year of operation, the Scottish Drug Enforcement Agency
said the number of large seizures had trebled to 84, with at least 70
organised criminal networks destroyed. The number of professional criminals
arrested increased by a third to more than 170.

The agency was set up in 2000 with a budget of UKP10m to tackle drug
trafficking. The staff of 34 civilian experts and 100 detectives is divided
between Scotland's eight police forces, and a further UKP6m in funding will
help pay for 64 more officers within months.

At the official opening of the agency's new headquarters in Paisley
yesterday, Jim Orr, the director, said the seizures and arrests were
largely a result of improved intelligence.

"It is absolutely critical that we become smarter in identifying and taking
away money from criminals," Mr Orr said. "Much has been achieved by the
agency, and as a result of the co-ordinating role of the SDEA, there is now
a better understanding of the nature and extent of drug trafficking,
serious and organised crime in Scotland."

Jack McConnell, Scotland's First Minister, said: "It is vital that we have
a Scotland-wide approach to ensure there is nowhere for dealers to hide.
Drug dealers do not respect police force boundaries.

"Making a real difference on drugs, means better enforcement to attack the
supply and action to reduce the demand."