Ulster Unionists have said that it is important the public give total support to the police in tackling the scourge of drugs. They were commenting following the news that police are investing a possible drug link in the tragic death of a young man in Banbridge.
Jo-Anne Dobson MLA said:
“Banbridge is reeling from the latest death in our community, once again a tragic loss of young life and a family left grieving. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
“I have been working with the local police in Banbridge, along with Councillor Glenn Barr, and I am meeting with Chief Inspector Ian Campbell on Monday afternoon. We must work together to tackle this scourge on our community.
“I would appeal to the local community to be vigilant and if they are aware that people are dealing drugs in their area to report it to the PSNI. The police have carried out a number of successful drugs raids, so it demonstrates how important it is that the police are provided with the information they need to wipe out drugs from our community.
“It is also very important that when drug dealers are caught and convicted that the sentences reflect the seriousness of the crime. This sends a message to drug dealers that when they are caught, they won’t get off lightly.
Councillor Glenn Barr said:
“Firstly, our thoughts are with the family of the young man who has passed away. The news has come as a shock to the local community.’
“It is worrying that the police are investigating if this death may be drugs related given that there have been a number of drugs related deaths in the town. This is a something we urgently need to get a grip of.
“We must continue to raise awareness of the harmful effects of drugs. A lot of young people still aren’t getting the message of just how dangerous taking drugs can be. They need to be fully equipped with the knowledge of how drug use can have, and in too many cases has had, fatal consequences.
“I often hear people in the community questioning why the PSNI aren’t arresting those who are dealing drugs. The simple fact is that the PSNI need the co-operation of the public in identifying those who are responsible for selling drugs.