In a report to go before councillors in Dundee on Monday, Mr Mathieson said, “The current phase of the operation involves increased foot patrol by uniformed officers designed to prevent crime and reassure the public.

“Unfortunately, there are still instances of robbery associated with the drugs trade, but these are much reduced. The number of drugs-related deaths is down. The feedback from the public and shopkeepers in the area is positiveIt is intended this focus continues.”

Operation Waterloo was launched in the summer amid concerns about the amount of heroin available in Dundee. The Tele began to focus on the issue after a court case in the city heard police surveillance recorded 50 people visiting a flat in five hours.

Local solicitor George Donnelly had told the court the Hilltown was “awash with heroin” and a torrent of addicts would flood to his client’s home.

During the initial Waterloo enforcement phase, which began on July 3, around 50 officers were deployed over two days to execute arrest and search warrants at addresses in the Hilltown and Stobswell areas.

Despite the successes of the campaign — dozens of arrests have been made and several types of drugs seized — Mr Mathieson said there was more work to do. He said, “There have been concerns about displacement of drug-dealing activity to other parts of the city, and evidence drug abusers are sourcing drugs from other parts of the city.

“Central division (Dundee) continue to carry out enforcement work throughout the city.”

The senior officer’s update also provides details of Operation Inchcape, being led by the new Community Task Force in Arbroath.

Since mid-September, 12 people have been arrested for trafficking class A drugs, and “more arrests are expected”, he said.

“In terms of recovery from drug dependency, arrest referral and health, colleagues are very pleased with arrangements and the number of people seeking assistance.”