THE news that around 200 planned raids a year have taken place since 2010 has been branded “alarmingly high” by the area’s politicians.

But local figures have also come out in praise of Police Scotland for taking a stance against drug crime locally.

Following a Reporter investigation into planned cannabis raids in West Dunbartonshire, Dumbarton MSP, Jackie Baillie said: “The levels of drug raids which are being reported across West Dunbartonshire are alarmingly high.

“It is equally worrying that many more cultivations may have been found in unplanned and unreported investigations.

“I am glad that Police Scotland is taking a zero-tolerance approach to drugs on our streets.

“Drugs can have a devastating impact for communities and it is important that we do everything we can to stamp out this type of crime.”

West of Scotland MSP Maurice Corry called for further action to get to the root of the drug problem.

He added: “These figures are far higher than I would’ve imagined, equating to four planned raids per week is an incredible use of resources and public money.

“It is perhaps time that the law surrounding cannabis is raised within parliament to deal with it more efficiently.

“The police are correct to target people growing cannabis as the most effective way to keep it off our streets, but by the consistency of these figures it seems it is doing little to prevent people engaging in this activity.

“This is why I think we need to look at the issue further to address the causes of it.”

In response to issues surrounding drug addiction, a spokesman for West Dunbartonshire Council said: “West Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) is continually working with residents to tackle drug misuse and addiction.

“We have many services including an out of hours telephone helpline which provides support at times when other services are closed.

“The HSCP is committed to ensuring our residents make informed choices about drug use and are fully aware of the dangers of drug misuse.

“Our aim is to continue to provide help, support and treatment to those already involved in drug misuse and to educate those who are not.”