What happens to the illicit drugs seized by Northamptonshire Police?

Yesterday (Monday, January 9), we launched our 2023 three-month campaign of intensive activity targeting the Force’s Matters of Priority starting with another sustained focus on drug harm.

As part of our first #MatterOfPriority week of action, we will be focusing on drug harm and the crimes linked to those who supply or use illicit substances, including the destruction of drugs seized by the Force.

Chief Inspector James Willis, who is leading this week of action, visited a specialist facility which works in partnership with the Force, to watch some of the illicit substances which have been seized in recent operations be incinerated.

In this video Chief Insp Willis explains what happens to seized drugs and talks about the futility of dealing, describing the final destination of the drugs as “the dirtiest, smelliest, and very unglamourous end of the dangerous supply chain.

“Behind every bag of drugs that we burn lies a criminal record, a drug debt, and untold ruined lives. My message to the good people of Northampton is – please help us tackle this deadly trade. Report to us what you know.”

If anyone has concerns about drug dealing, or someone becoming drawn into gang culture, please report it to us on 101, online at northants.police.uk/ro or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.