New garda drugs taskforce is rolled out in Mayo

AN Garda Siochana has launched a new drugs taskforce in Mayo.

It is central to a strategy targetting all aspects of drug abuse, drug dealing and harm reduction - and is results orientated.

The unit is under the control of Westport-based Detective Superintendent Joe McKenna.

With a staff of nine, it will be supported and augmented by the Regional Armed Support Unit, the Criminal Assets Bureau, the Divisional Detective Unit, the Divisional Roads Policing Unit, the Divisional Community Policing Units and local gardaì.

The unit will seize assets in the county which are identified as the proceeds of crime.

Chief Superintendent Tony Healy said: "Working with communities and stakeholders, we have the competence, resources, drive and determination to tackle drugs and drug-related offences.

"I have also set up an administrative support structure to ensure that gardaì attached to the unit can maximise the time they spend in the community dealing with offences."

The unit consists of nine officers, two sergeants and seven gardaì.