THE DRUG TRAFFIC.

Otago Witness, Issue 3774, 13 July 1926, Page 10

THE DRUG TRAFFIC.

COLONEL KNOTT’S ALLEGATIONS. WELLINGTON, July 5. When Colonel Knott, of the Salvation Army, made his allegations concerning the use of drugs in New Zealand, Mr W. B. MTlveney, Commissioner of Police, was approached on the subject, but declined to express an opinion. The Commissioner stated that he was writing to liis officers throughout the Dominion on the subject, and that when he had their reports on the matter it would be possible that he would be in a position to make a statement. A considerable number of these reports is now to hand, and, though Mr M'llveney is not disposed to make a statement because the matter is now sub judice, the subject being about to be discussed in the House of Representatives, there seems to be reason to believe that the allegations of Colonel Knott have by no means been borne out. If such a state oi affairs as Colonel Knott alleged to be in existence in New Zealand actually existed, it is difficult to believe that the police would have no knowledge of it, and so the testimony of the guardians of the public peace seems likely to be given on the side of those who criticised the Salvation Army officer adversely at the time. Whatever the position, however, a statement is likely to be made at an early date. One question has been disposed of by the police. Experience has shown that it is impossible to insert any appreciable quantity of a drug inside chocolates.