Police praised for being proactive in drugs fight

Findings have been published after an independent review conducted by the police and crime commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn on tackling illegal drug supply and use in Dyfed-Powys.

His report also suggests that more could be done to address the harm caused by substance misuse, and identifies a need for greater multi-agency working.

Mr Llywelyn said: “I am assured that Dyfed-Powys Police’s proactive operations are proving to be effective at disrupting serious and organised crime activity.

"My report highlights a 49 per cent rise in drug trafficking offences since 2016. This demonstrates a clear link between the priorities in my Police and Crime Plan and the way in which policing is delivered across Dyfed-Powys.

"There is, however a need for a closer, more consistent working relationship between all partners in terms of addressing the substance misuse needs of those most affected, ensuring that these issues are approached in a more holistic and whole system approach."

Sparked by public feedback to the commissioner that illegal drug use was their biggest concern, as well as significant high-profile police operations targeting drug trafficking, the review included consultation with the public, substance misuse service users and providers and police officers and staff. The review also considered alternative solutions to the issue.

Priorities

A series of recommendations have been put to the Chief Constable, Mark Collins, who will provide the Force’s planned course of action in a formal response to the Commissioner. The Commissioner’s office will use this action plan to review the Force’s progress over the coming months.

Chief Constable Mark Collins added: “I am grateful to the Commissioner and his office for investing in this report which focuses on how we tackle illegal drug misuse - one of my main priorities for the force in respect of keeping our communities safe.

"I am pleased to see that the report has identified some of the success factors in our fight against drug misuse whilst also revealing how Dyfed Powys Police is committed to tackling the wide ranging issues and harm that drug misuse brings to our communities.

“We will continue to provide and build on the holistic response to drug and substance misuse within our force area, with our focus remaining on rehabilitating those fighting an addiction to drugs, and also take positive action to tackle drug dealing and supply, especially those targeting vulnerable and young people.

"I will ensure that the force now works closely with the Commissioner’s office to ensure that the identified recommendations within the report are worked through at both a strategic and operational level, and provide a planned course of action moving forward.”