More than 9,500 pieces of anonymous information about drug trafficking and supply were passed to the police in Scotland over the past year by Crimestoppers.
The tips were initially provided by members of the public and accounted for 53% of all calls made to the charity between April 2018 and March this year.
There were also over 1,000 pieces of additional information about the manufacture and cultivation of drugs across the country.
In light of the significant figures, Crimestoppers has launched a new national effort to highlight the harm drug dealers can inflict on vulnerable people in Scotland’s communities.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of drug dealing in Scotland and shows the exploitation by drug dealers on those who may be vulnerable or experiencing a challenging or difficult time in their life.
It also hopes to highlight how dealers can prey on the vulnerable and those going through difficult times including: bereavement, peer pressure, job loss, money worries and early years parental drug use.
The campaign will equip community partners with postcards, posters and feature Scotland-wide social media enabling people to give information online.
Minister for Community Safety, Ash Denham said: “Drug dealers cause serious harm to communities across Scotland through their exploitation of the vulnerable – people who are often at traumatic or difficult points in their lives.
“This campaign highlights the devastating impact this criminal behaviour can have and outlines steps the public can take to identify and report it.
“Crimestoppers offers a completely anonymous and safe way to report potential crime and harm happening within our communities.
“This means that we can all play a part in making our neighbourhoods safer places to live.”
Angela Parker, Scotland National Manager for Crimestoppers, said: “Everyone has the right to feel safe and live free from the harm of drugs and our campaign aims to highlight the misery dealers inflict on the vulnerable in our communities.
“Our charity is making a difference every day, but we need people to speak up and help prevent drug-related deaths and the harm caused by dealers to the vulnerable.
“We won’t judge or ask any personal details if you contact us. All we want to know is what you know and you’ll remain 100% anonymous.”
Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111, while information can also be sent via an untraceable online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org.