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Dealers and smugglers should “look left and right” when trying to bring drugs into Jersey because the police are already on to them, the island’s top officer has said.
Police Chief Robin Smith said that although Jersey had low crime levels, the island could never take its safety for granted.
In the latest Bailiwick Express podcast, Chief Officer Robin Smith said: “I have often said that criminals are the most entrepreneurial bunch. We talk about very wealthy individuals finding ways to make money; well, criminals are more entrepreneurial than anyone.
“They are constantly seeking opportunities – but so am I. So am I. We weren’t sitting back and smoking cigars in lockdown; we knew we would see an increase in crime, particularly around drug-related crime and how drug dealers would seek to come into the island.
“Of course, the standard of living here is predominately high, and there is a market. And if there is a market, people will want to come and use it.
"Our job is to disrupt that market, which we do very effectively. But of course, low crime doesn’t mean no crime.
He added: "My message is: if you are coming to this island or committing drugs-related offences, when you get out of your car, when you come out of your flat or house, look left and look right.
“That is what I want you to do: look left and look right. My Drugs Squad officers and everyone who supports them are doing a great job.”
Mr Smith said: “We have an island which is observant and responsive, and islanders are our eyes and ears, and they tell us stuff, sometimes anonymously through Crimestoppers.
“They want to protect the island as much as I do, and I am enormously grateful for that.”
In a wide-ranging podcast interview, Mr Smith reflects on the past year of policing, which including a significant rise in the amount of youth crime, the recruitment of more police officers and budgetary pressures.
Mr Smith also praises the efforts of the entire States of Jersey Police, which this year is celebrating its 70 anniversary. He also thanks partner agencies, including the Honorary Police.
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