POLICE seized 1000 litres of booze from underage drinkers in the first weeks of a crime blitz in north Glasgow.
Officers recovered the alcohol – the equivalent of 3000 bottles of beer (or 250 gallons) – from youths on the streets of Possil, one of the UK's poorest areas.
Hundreds of people have been arrested since a joint operation was launched by Strathclyde Police and North Glasgow Homes
The association, which handles around 1000 tenancies, has part-funded a dedicated police squad to tackle violent crime, drugs offences, nuisance tenants and anti-social behaviour.
Since the Safer Possil campaign was launched on June 6, 224 people have been arrested for crimes that have included assaults and thefts. A total of 37 fixed penalty tickets were issued for anti-social behaviour to July 26.
Police and staff from North Glasgow Housing Association have also carried out 70 visits to nuisance tenants.
The visits are the first stage in the eviction process.
Lynne Cooper, of the association, said: "There is a marked change in the behaviour of a number of individuals who were regularly being brought to the attention of the police and the association."
During the crackdown two people were caught supplying drugs and 27 people were in possession of illegal drugs.
The 14-week campaign follows similar initiatives in Wyndford and the Glenavon tower blocks, which led to an 82% drop in incidences of violent crime.
Similar campaigns have already taken place in the East End.
Chief Inspector Ann Hughes, of Maryhill police office, said: "What we are trying to do is build a safer community but we need the support of other people.
"What is also important is making sure the working practices are in place when the initiative ends."
caroline.wilson@ eveningtimes.co.uk