Police in the city have voiced concerns that they are not getting enough support from the community when it comes to tackling drug crime.

A total of 120 arrests and 117 seizures were made in the Derry area in 2007/08, but there is still "much headway" to be made, according to PSNI Area Commander, Chief Inspector Chris Yates.

He has warned that if drug dealers are not reported to the police, they will continue to put lives at risk.

"Time and time again we hear that age old adage that 'the dog on the street' knows who the drug dealers are. This may be the case, but if you are only talking about it among yourselves then what use is that to anyone. If you have information, no matter how small or insignificant, tell the police and do it straightaway. The quicker we get the information, the quicker we can feed it into our system and do something about it.

"If you know who the drug dealers are, give us their names. Tell us what vehicles they are using, who they are associating with and where we can find them. Don't wait a week or a month, pick up the phone and ring your local station immediately or make contact with one of the Neighbourhood Officers."

And Chief Inspector Yates sent out a stern warning to those involved in the sale of illegal drugs. "Addressing this issue is a priority for my officers and was specifically highlighted in this year's policing plan."

He urged everyone in the city to help battle the "problem". "Drug abuse is not solely a policing issue; it is something that as a community we must work together to address."

He added: "Our message is simple – if you have information about the sale or supply of drugs in the Foyle area tell us. Information can be passed on by telephoning 0845 600 8000." The 'Crimestoppers' charity can also be contacted, anonymously, on freephone 0800 555 111.