THE manufacturing and trafficking of methamphetamines in central Victoria has risen over the past three years, a senior Victoria Police member says.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Superintendent Mick West said while cannabis dealing was prevalent a few years ago, methamphetamines or what is commonly called ice was on the increase.
"We have certainly seen an increase over the last two-and-a-half, three years in relation to ice," he said.
"A look at our recent drug and crime statistics show ice is on the rise - whereas five, 10 years ago there was a lot of cannabis use and dealing in this area.
"It has certainly been a eroded by the use of ice. That is also having an impact on our crime statistics such as burglary and theft from motor car which we know is a direct result of the use of ice."
Superintendent West said a new campaign aimed at curbing the region's drug activity with public assistance would help police crack down on drug crime.
"We are really asking strongly for the support of the community. Let's take the moral high ground, let's pick up the phone, let's protect our kids, our community and the way we live in this beautiful place," he said.
"If we can shut down the dealers through the campaign and maintain that - Bendigo, Echuca, and Macedon Ranges - will be a better place for our families and our children to grow up.
"Police are not the cure to the ice epidemic across this state, it's the community as well, we can't do it alone."
To report a crime or dob in a dealer contact Crime Stoppers contact 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au