Significant quantities of illegal party drugs have been seized by
Border Force this year, preventing high levels of harmful and
illegal substances reaching communities across the UK.
Border Force are making more, higher quantity seizures than in
previous years, using advanced technology and greater
intelligence.
Between January and June 2024, Border Force made a total of
22,719 illegal drug seizures, a 19% increase compared to the same
period last year.
Over 90 tonnes of illegal drugs were seized, up 92% compared to
the first half of 2023.
This included significant quantities of so-called party drugs,
cocaine and ketamine. Strong operational performance and a
zero-tolerance approach to illegal drug smuggling resulted in
over 19 tonnes of cocaine and 412kg of ketamine being confiscated
in the first half of this year.
So far this year, Border Force have also made over 18,000
individual seizures of herbal cannabis, equalling 41
tonnes.
Today's statistics underline the crucial role that Border Force
play in keeping the public safe from illegal drugs, contributing
to the government's mission to make our streets
safer.
Minister for Migration and Citizenship, MP, said:
We are determined to protect the public from illegal drugs,
especially so-called party drugs like cocaine and ketamine, which
pose a real threat to young people's lives.
Our dedicated Border Force officers work tirelessly to identify
and seize these illegal substances, working in partnership with
other law enforcement agencies to keep them off our
streets.
Today's statistics send a clear message to criminal gangs – if
you try to smuggle them into this country, you will be caught and
you will face the full force of the law.
Border Force officers use a range of methods to detect illegal
drugs, including advanced technology and intelligence. They are
highly trained in behavioural detection and are effective at
spotting the signs of criminal activity.
Working in partnership, police forces, Border Force, the National
Crime Agency and international partners use intelligence and
technology to keep our borders safe, prevent drug trafficking and
bring those responsible to justice.
