‘Operation Torus’ targets dealers

Operation Torus aims to disrupt and arrest drug dealers involved in the sale and supply of drugs and encourage people to report information on street-level drug dealing. The Operation combines police action against dealers on the ground and a media campaign which incorporates billboards, Facebook and washroom advertising that will run until October.

In G District, which covers Londonderry, Strabane, Limavady and Magherafelt, police have seized over £400,000 worth of drugs.

Detective Chief Inspector Garry Eaton said, “Drugs is always a priority for us and Operation Torus is a welcome enhancement to our ongoing drugs operations.

“We know that street-level drug dealing is happening across our District and we need the help and support of local communities to remove this activity from our streets. If you know that illegal drugs are being sold or distributed in your area, please pick up the phone and contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team.

“The types of drugs we regularly seize during our operations include cannabis, herbal cannabis, cocaine, mephadrone and prescription drugs and sadly they bring untold misery to individuals, families and communities.

“I would warn people to be mindful of the dangers of taking illegal drugs or misusing prescription medication or other chemical products. Parents need to be responsible, knowing where their children are and what they are doing. Young people who take illegal drugs may get into dangerous situations or activities that they would not normally dream of doing. It may also lead to a criminal record which can damage employment and travel prospects. In addition, this type of behaviour has the potential to seriously affect the quality of life for many residents in a community.

“We are determined to disrupt and arrest drug dealers and bring individuals before the courts. We will continue to 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.

“Information is vital and we need assistance from the public. The information we receive can lead to seizures, arrest and convictions. This is about empowering and working with local communities to make their communities safer, reducing the threat posed by street-level drugs and dealing with offenders robustly, but humanely, through the criminal justice system.

“Our message today is clear and simple: if you see or know of anyone who is dealing drugs in your local area, then contact your local police on 0845 600 8000 or alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 and pass on any details that you may have.”