More detectives and customs officials need to be appointed in Rotterdam to combat drugs crime in the city’s port, according to mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb.

In an interview with broadcaster NOS, Aboutaleb says that the cabinet needs to put more money into efforts to stop criminals undermining society, particularly in Rotterdam.

The cabinet is due to discuss the issue later on Thursday, NOS said.

Last year officials seized almost 19 tonnes of cocaine hidden in ships and containers at Rotterdam port and several port officials and customs officers were arrested for helping drugs smugglers.

‘Enormous quantities of drugs head our way using all sorts of different methods,’ Aboutaleb said. ‘We can do more within the port but I am running up against limitations. I cannot put in more police officers than I do at present.’

It should also be easier for city officials to exchange information about drugs related crime, Aboutaleb said. Current privacy legislation, he said, stops him from informing Groningen’s mayor if a known criminal moves north.