There has been an increase in reported cases of drug debt intimidation in Waterford over the past year.

Crime Prevention Officer at Waterford Garda Station, Sergeant Deirdre O’Neill says many people are getting in touch in relation to the issue.

Speaking on Deise Today, she said many people are now speaking out with concerns.

“We have seen a lot of people come back to us who we visited previously who have made statements now,” she said. “There’s a lot more information coming into on our Garda Confidential Line.”

Regardless of the information, Sgt O’Neill says it will be investigated further.

“You don’t have to prove anything to us – give us the information and we will follow it up,” she said.

She says there are many supports available for anyone who is impacted.

She is also reassuring the public that Waterford Gardai are on hand to assist and to deal with any issues relating to drug debt intimidation.

“We want to remind people that we’re here to help even if you don’t want to go down the road of a formal complaint,” she said.

“We know there are more cases that aren’t being reported.”