THE number of drug seizures in Glasgow fell by almost 13% last year, according to new figures released to the Evening Times under Freedom of Information legislation.

The Police Scotland statistics show there were 7216 seizures in 2013/14, down from 8287 in the previous 12 months.

Class B drugs such as speed and cannabis made up the majority of drugs taken off the streets of Glasgow last year, with 5110 recorded seizures.

There were 1287 seizures of Class A drugs, including heroin, cocaine and ecstasy, as well as 819 seizures of Class C drugs such as tranquillisers, Valium and anabolic steroids.

The total number of seizures in Glasgow rose steadily from 2010, when there were 6693 seizures, to 7946 the following year, then 8287 in 2012/13.

Seizures of Class A, B and C drugs largely followed the same pattern over the three-year period.

However, the number of seizures of Class As rose from 1232 in 2012/13 to 1287 last year, bucking the trend for an overall fall.

People convicted of possessing Class A drugs can go to prison for up to seven years.

Those selling the controlled substances will face a life sentence.

The maximum sentence for possessing Class B drugs is five years, while those found guilty of trafficking the drugs could go to jail for 14 years.

Softer sentences are handed down for possession of Class C drugs - the offence carries a maximum term of two years - however dealing or supplying the drugs can carry a 14-year sentence.