Police raids across West Lothian
RAIDS took place today as part of a police operation that has seized £1.5m worth of drugs and £82,000 in cash.
Police searched properties in Whitburn and Fauldhouse investigating the activities of suspected organised criminals operating in the county. Four men have been detained and searches are still underway at the properties.
A total of 10 people have been arrested as part of the police operation, and one man has been sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty to drugs offences.
Chief Superintendent Jeanette McDiarmid, said: “These raids demonstrate our commitment to tackling the scourge of drugs in local communities, and bringing offenders to justice.
“Through Operation Focus we are committed to improving the quality of life for the people of West Lothian, and we are working alongside our partners to make a difference in communities affected by drugs misuse.
“Officers will be visiting local secondary schools later today to deliver an anti-drugs message to pupils, while staff from West Lothian Council will be carrying out a community clean-up in the areas affected by this morning’s raids.
“Police will be carrying out high-visibility patrols in the local area throughout the course of the day, and I would encourage anyone who has any information regarding drug dealing or any other form of criminal activity to tell the officers, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
“Rest assured that any information received will be acted on, and treated in the strictest confidence.”
Since its launch in 2009, Operation Focus has had a positive impact in communities across West Lothian, tackling crime and enhancing the quality of life for local residents.
John McGinty, leader of West Lothian Council, said: “West Lothian Council is committed to improving the quality of life of local people. Drugs and drug dealing has a negative impact on people and communities. Operation Focus sends out a strong message that this activity will not be tolerated in West Lothian.
“Following police raids council staff will be active in the areas involved to carry out community clean-ups and remove graffiti. Schools are also being proactive in getting out the anti-drugs message. Police officers will speak to pupils in our secondary schools, with school nurses and teachers also supporting the health messages about the harmful effects that drug use has on health, families and communities.”
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Weather for Linlithgow
Tuesday 21 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 7 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 3 C to 12 C
Wind Speed: 23 mph
Wind direction: West
