Sniffer dogs help seize £250,000 of drugs and cash

Sniffer dogs have helped seize around £250,000 of illegal drugs and cash this year.

Search dogs, based in Shetland, have helped in the recovery of £125,363 of illegal substances and cash, while canines in Orkney have been involved in the seizure of £62,000 worth of drugs.

Meanwhile, almost £56,000 worth of drugs have been recovered in the Western Isles since January 1.

Dogs and their handlers work together with local police teams, carrying out checks at airports, ferry terminals and parcel delivery spots.

Last month, seven parcels were seized at Lerwick Post Office, which resulted in further investigations in the mainland. In one case, enforcement activity was launched in Glasgow, while an individual was arrested in the north east in connection with the supply of controlled drugs.

A 24-year-old woman in Glasgow was also arrested following the recovery of drugs linked to activity carried out by Kirkwall officers and Orkney Drugs Dog.

Superintendent Iain MacLelland said: “These are just a few examples of the excellent detection work that has taken place during the past year by these charities and I would like to take this chance to thank them for their invaluable efforts – not only have they made a significant impact in minimising harm locally, but also in our communities nationwide.

“On a daily basis the dogs are deployed in a range of environments to carry out proactive checks at airports, ferry terminals and parcel delivery depots, as well as delivering educational programmes to local schools, colleges and businesses.

“As we continue to adapt to changing trends in how we police our communities as a consequence of the pandemic, officers across the Highlands and Islands have identified an increase in the quantity of controlled drugs being seized from postal delivery services.

“This trend has been most evident in the Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland where the local area commanders are supported by drugs detection dogs secured as a result of funding by their local communities.

“Collectively, we are absolutely committed to working with communities and partners in the UK to reduce the availability of drugs and will continue to take robust action against those involved in such criminal activity.

“My thanks go to these charities once again – I can say with some certainty that these areas are safer place to live thanks to the handlers and their trusted dogs.”