North east police yesterday boasted of hauling in more than £1 million worth of drugs over the past year.
Mounds of illicit substances worth £1,129,000 have been seized by specialist officers during raids between last April and the end of March.
The revelation came as part of a report which also detailed “significant” reductions in thefts over the past year.
Police chiefs said the force has helped bring about a 28.9% decline in break-ins and attempts, coupled with an increase of more than 12% in the detection rates for domestic house-breakings.
And the figures showed a 31% reduction in all crimes relating to motor vehicles.
The region’s chief superintendent, Campbell Thomson, welcomed the findings but said people could do more to ensure that they do not fall victim to crime.
He said: “We are recording numerous successes in apprehending many criminals and recovering stolen property, however it is the public who can assist us from the outset by ensuring their valuables are always secure.
“We are still finding that in many cases the home, garage, shed or vehicle in question has been left unlocked, giving would-be thieves an ideal chance to steal.”
Ch Supt Thomson urged people to “support the police’s efforts” by prioritising home security.
The force also highlighted a 5.2% reduction in violent crime over the past year, with Ch Supt Thomson crediting efforts to clamp down on drunken troublemakers.
He added: “There is absolutely no place for violent crime in our communities and, in particular, needless incidents fuelled by the overconsumption of alcohol.
“Above all, it comes down to individuals taking responsibility for their actions and understanding the consequences of behaving in such an unacceptable way.”
