Our Beat
Covering some 2,649 square miles in the south-west of Scotland, the force is divided into two operational policing divisions. While Galloway Division in the west has the larger land area, Dumfries Division has the greater population and proportionally more of our staff. Some 148,000 people live in the area with the largest towns being Dumfries, home to 31,600 people, Stranraer with about 10,800 and Annan with around 8,300.
Stretching the length of the force from the border with Cumbria Constabulary to our sea border with the Police Service of Northern Ireland in the west, the 95 miles of the A75, Euroroute 18, provide a conduit between Ireland and Continental Europe through the busy ferry ports of Stranraer and Cairnryan.
In the east, the A74(M) is the main arterial route between Scotland and England, running some 35 miles between our borders with Strathclyde Police in the north and Cumbria Constabulary to the south. Further to the east the force is bordered by Lothian and Borders Police.
While there have been many changes over the years, traditional agricultural and forestry industries are still substantial employers in this rural area. An outstanding landscape and many recreational facilities continue to attract large numbers of visitors, while the 218 miles of coastline offer work and leisure opportunities.
This quiet and rural area is not immune to the less desirable aspects of contemporary society. The ever growing misuse of drugs and related crime continues to give rise to concern in our communities. The force response is to act positively, using intelligence-led initiatives to prosecute those involved.
These many different demands, coupled with the geography of the area, create their own challenges for the force in providing an effective and reliable police service.
Our promise
Read our community promise which sets out our commitment to deliver a professional and high standard of service to the people of Dumfries and Galloway:
