POLICE recovered nearly 400g of cannabis from a property in Helensburgh and Lomond, it has been revealed in a report to councillors.
Officers also continue to investigate methods of tackling serious and organised crime, as well as making use of a new van to assist in the fight against fraud.
The ‘scam van’ has been seen across the area as seven frauds have been recorded locally since the start of April.
The details are revealed in a report to Argyll and Bute Council’s Helensburgh and Lomond area committee on Tuesday, September 9.
Inspector Bart Simonis said: “We continue to look for ways to disrupted and target those criminals’ intent on causing misery to those most vulnerable within our communities.
“We remain resolute in targeting the illegal drug trade ensuring that we seek support from partners across the country in doing so.
“We have been upskilling officers across our policing division, ensuring they understand and appreciate the importance of community intelligence and information.
“Through intelligence led policing, officers are able to apply to the courts for Sheriff search warrants and take positive action in the detection and disruption of those involved in the sale and supply of controlled drugs.
“A recent property was targeted, resulting in a recovery of 376 grams of cannabis.
“Community information is key for us and may just provide us with the last piece of evidence required to apply to the courts for a warrant.
“We encourage our communities to share concerns and suspicions around drug dealing either by calling 101 or by reporting anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website and online form.”
The inspector added: “We have recorded seven frauds since April 1. Prior to April we saw a number of online frauds recorded.
“These frauds relate to online sales sites such as Facebook marketplace and online investments such as Crypto Currency.
“Our pro-active work to protect the public from fraud continues. We are delivering inputs to groups and utilising our social media presence to maximum effect.
“Our relationship with our colleagues in Trading Standards is strong and we are installing call-blockers to landlines when appropriate which is a device to add a level of protection against the automated type of fraudulent call.
“Our partnerships team have been out recently in Helensburgh with a newly kitted out crime prevention van known as the ‘scam van’ this is a roadshow of various prevention tips and advice through practical presentations.
“The van attracted some great local interest and was featured on our social media channels.”
