seizures of heroin, cocaine and crack.

Drugs squad officers confiscated 262.84 grams of heroin, compared to 205.08 in 1992.

The weights of cocaine and crack seized were 7,439.18 grams and 186.6, both increases on the previous year.

"1993 was a successful year for the Narcotics Section, with arrests comparable to 1992,'' the Bermuda Police's annual report declares.

But the report -- presented to the House of Assembly yesterday -- paints a picture of increasing lawlessness, with rises in crime, violence, and drug abuse. Traffic accidents also rose.

In the report, Police Commissioner Mr. Lennett (Lennie) Edwards praises his men for coping, despite Budget cuts.

Manpower was decreased from 489 to 432, he says.

"The reduction in manpower meant that each and every member of staff was tasked with additional responsibilities with which to cope.

"I am, therefore, grateful for the continued professional support given me as Commissioner by all members of the Force, the Reserve Constabulary and our dedicated civilian support staff.'' Mr. Edwards also touched on the expatriate officers let go because of financial constraints.

"1993 saw the non-renewal of contracts of eighteen members of the Force who had served the Force and community well.

"This was the first, and hopefully the last, time that contracts will not be renewed under such circumstances and I again offer my thanks and best wishes to the officers concerned.'' Despite the increasing importation of heroin and cocaine, the report does deliver some good news on drugs.

It points out seizures in cannabis resin fell from 1,007.39 grams to 317.57.

There was also a dramatic decrease in cannabis confiscated, although this was attributed to an exceptionally large seizure in 1992 which inflated the figures.

"The Civil Air Terminal and cruise ships have again been the main conduits for drug shipments,'' the report states.

"With the assistance of H.M. Customs, shipments have successfully been intercepted at the Airmail Postal Facility, Freight Shed and in passengers' luggage.'' Twenty couriers were intercepted carrying drugs hidden both on their bodies and "internally in body cavities'' -- one of whom died as a result, the report adds.

"The National Drugs Intelligence Unit and US Customs have provided valuable assistance in the seizure of cash being exported for the purchase of drugs and detention of `cash' couriers.''