Prison expansion 'needs exploring' as drug crackdown continues, says police chief

Chief constable says stronger enforcement has driven results but raises the need for alternatives to custody

The Isle of Man’s Chief Constable says some Class A drugs are being sold at significantly higher prices on the Island than in parts of the north-west of England, as he outlined the Constabulary’s strategy to tackle importation.

Appearing on Manx Radio’s Mannin Line, Russ Foster revealed substances such as cocaine were being sold at up to three times the price on the streets of Douglas compared with Merseyside.

Mr Foster questions whether the Island faces a wider public health issue linked to drug use, suggesting that law enforcement efforts may be "treating the symptoms" by imprisoning those involved in importing narcotics rather than addressing underlying demand.

He says the Constabulary has adopted a more "proactive and intelligence-led" approach in recent years, working closely with Customs and Excise and immigration partners. He described the results as “excellent”, arguing that stronger enforcement has contributed to a rise in the prison population.

The Isle of Man Prison in Jurby is currently operating above capacity, with portable cells having been installed in recent years to accommodate additional inmates.

Mr Foster attributes the increase in numbers to what he described as a "robust approach" to tackling serious criminality, particularly drug importation.

When asked whether the prison requires expansion, he said alternatives to incarceration should be explored, but stresses that suitable infrastructure would be needed to support non-custodial options.

At the same time, he indicated that he believes a new wing should be built at Jurby, adding that the Department of Home Affairs is exploring the possibility.

He spoke to Manx Radio's Andy Wint: