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Cannabis Campaigners' Guide News Database result:
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UK: Merseyside UK's 'drugs distribution capital'
Ananova Thursday 17 Jan 2002 Merseyside has become the drugs distribution capital of Britain, according to a leaked police document. The report states that the area is unique in terms of the scale, extent and depth of organised crime. Merseyside Police Chief Norman Bettison's report to local MPs says there are an extensive number of "nationally graded" criminals enjoying "unexplained wealth". Mr Bettison also states that 60% of the drugs in Scotland are routed through Merseyside and that there are proven routes to other parts of the UK. He adds that 50% of Customs and Excise seizures have links to Merseyside, which has also become a leading centre for trafficking tobacco and illegal immigrants. The report reveals that underworld turf wars are on the increase, with the number of shootings rising from 15 in 1998 to 57 last year. The force already spends more than £20 million per year in the fight against organised crime. Mr Bettison warns that other police services are under threat due to the growing problem. Merseyside Police has released a statement claiming the highly confidential briefing paper was sent to MPs as part of the ongoing debate into police funding on Merseyside. It said: "In the letter, Mr Bettison aimed to address any concerns the MPs may have had about the unique pressures we face on Merseyside with organised and serious crime. Throughout the letter Mr Bettison emphasised the confidentiality of its contents. "Significant steps have been taken to disrupt organised crime alongside partner agencies such as the National Crime Squad and National Criminal Intelligence Service."
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