But the Council Partners Charitable Trust said the Police drive against drug dealers was only part of the solution.

"The ultimate partnership will result when law enforcement can count on the community to bring felons to justice,'' said Trust chairman Brian Duperreault.

"When we join together, we will be many steps closer to the goal of reducing and hopefully one day eradicating this scourge.'' Mr. Duperreault's organisation encompasses five agencies: The Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse (CADA); Fair Havens Christian Care Association; Parent Resource Institute for Drug Education (PRIDE); FOCUS; and Bermuda Life Skills Group.

He said Operation Cleansweep also resulted from a partnership.

In this case, between the Police, US Consul General's office, the Drug Enforcement Agency and Scotland Yard.

"It was born of the community's increasing frustration and concern over the effect that drugs are having on our families, friends and neighbours.

"Now the community can make the difference between success and failure.'' Mr. Duperreault said Operation Cleansweep was aimed at "street-level'' crime.

"The community knows that these dealers are in our neighbourhoods; they traffic near our schools and churches.

"While the Police Service has an effective tool in Operation Cleansweep, it is only part of the solution.'' It was essential the public joined in supporting the initiative.

Mr. Duperreault said the agencies of Council Partners were involved in education, prevention, rehabilitation and treatment programmes.

But the Trust also fully supported the "get tough'' approach of the Police Service, he added.

"As a Bermudian who employs many other Bermudians, I know that the drugs problem is one that we all want to solve.

"We have an opportunity here to take a stand and to make a difference. We urge the community to get behind our service and make that difference.''