Police have put 17 suspected crack houses under surveillance said Attorney General Phil Perinchief.

But Government seems no nearer to carrying out its long-standing promised to close drug dens.

In November 2005 Senator Perinchief's predecessor Larry Mussenden told an anti-drugs rally that Government had identified 17 crack houses which it would shut down.

But the clampdown faltered when Government realised it didn't have sufficient legislation to tackle the problem, although a handful were dealt with. has repeatedly been asking about the progress of the proposed blitz.

In response to media inquiries Sen. Perinchief issued a statement yesterday saying: "Whilst we currently suspect that at least 17 of these derelict properties are involved in illicit activities, we also suspect that this number could rise as our investigations continue.

"Rest assured that the Government is taking steps towards a drug-free Bermuda.

"I can confirm that the suspected properties are under Police surveillance and that once we have acquired sufficient evidence we will be able to have the matter dealt with in the courts."

But he added it was important not to "act in haste".

He added: "We want to ensure that when we close one crack house, it is not replaced by another crack house in another location."

However the statement failed to answer queries sent to Government by this newspaper including the timeline for shutting the drug dens, whether the required legislation had been drawn up and whether closing crack houses was a priority for Government.

In his statement Sen. Perinchief went on to warn owners of derelict properties who refuse to improve them that Government is ready to step in and renovate them.

It follows the pledge last month by Housing Minister David Burch to get privately-owned vacant and derelict homes renovated and back into use.

Government will liaise with owners who can be found to rehabilitate the properties but it will compulsorily purchase those that are being fought over.

And yesterday Sen. Perinchief said contact has been made with 15 owners.

He added: "I have also been made aware that there are some property owners who do not wish to participate in this program ? nor do they have any intention of restoring their derelict properties.

"I can only remind them of our legal power to enter onto the property and complete the work if properties are not maintained."

Letters have been sent to those property owners who have indicated non-compliance pointing out Government reserves the right to take action legally.

And letters have also been sent to owners who have claimed their properties have been sold requesting proof of sale.

Sen. Perinchief pointed out that those who wanted to keep their properties but lacked the funds could get help from Bermuda Housing Corporation.