Police have warned that the highly addictive drug P is being used in the Clutha district.

"Drugs are an area of concern with evidence of the P drug affecting some people in South Otago now," Senior Sergeant Alastair Dickie said in his annual report on crime statistics, tabled at yesterday's meeting of the Clutha District Council.

"The problem is not widespread but P is definitely being used in Clutha. We're always looking for it," Sergeant Barry Hansen said.

Police had stepped up their anti-drug activity across the board and would continue to do so, with many more search warrants now being executed, he said.

Mr Hansen urged the community to help police tackle the problem before it became a serious issue.

Anyone aware of users or dealers of the drug should contact the Balclutha police.

All information would be treated in the strictest confidence.

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