Police official says Iceland’s drug demand is concerning

A senior police official has called Iceland’s high demand for drugs a cause for concern, as a new policing strategy says organised crime has worsened in recent years, mbl.is reports.

Ævar Pálmi Pálmason, an assistant chief superintendent in the police investigation department, said the strategy sets realistic and worthwhile goals, including increasing the number of police officers and civilian specialists. It also addresses the organisation of the police force.

“We should not overlook the good work the police have done so far,” he said. “But this strategy will provide further support for the development and progress of the police.”

The strategy refers to a report by the National Commissioner of Police’s analysis department, which says the number of active criminal groups grew from around 10 in 2015 to around 20.

Ævar said the strategy was important in light of that increase and the high demand for drugs in Iceland. He described the demand as “very noteworthy” and said importing and selling drugs in the country appeared to be highly lucrative.

He said society should consider its role in demand for and use of expensive drugs such as cocaine and ketamine. “People in the lowest social classes do not necessarily have the means to buy a lot of cocaine or ketamine for the weekend, for going out, or for daily use,” he said.