Overall rates of crime continued an annual downwards trend, but there were increases in domestic abuse instances, sexual offences and robberies.

Recruitment and retention issues were heavily referenced throughout the report, representing an on-going issue for the services since just before the onset of the covid-19 pandemic. 

Brexit also continued to present operational challenges to both organisations, particularly the Border Agency, who had to wrestle with increasing immigration applications, new customs arrangements, and covid-19 traveler policing. 

GBA also dealt with a greater number of drug importations than in 2020, although the value of drugs seized fell dramatically by over £1m.

The Head of Law Enforcement also admitted to Express the number of cannabis prescriptions is “hugely above” their initial predictions, which presents unique challenges to drug policing generally. 

And the seemingly increasing cases of drink spiking were noted as being caused by additional alcohol being added to unsuspecting people’s drinks, rather than other specific drugs.

Listen: Find out more about all of the above by listening to Express’ podcast with the Head of Law Enforcement, or by clicking on the links above and below.

READ MORE…

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LISTEN: Drug policing facing new challenges

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Additional alcohol likely the main means of spiking