According to police, the gangs are responsible for an increase in the importation and distribution of amphetamine-type drugs, including ice, throughout the state.

Enforcement agencies have already had some big wins in their goal to disrupt and dismantle the illicit drug trade.

Since July, three kilograms of that type of drug has been seized by police — already twice what was confiscated last financial year.

A $10 million drug ring that was importing drugs in the mail from the UK was broken up earlier this year.

The seizures are good news as it means less drugs on the streets, reducing the level of harm they cause.

The scourge of ice use is destroying people, families and communities across Australia. It is so addictive that people can be hooked from their first experience.

In Tasmania, the anecdotal evidence points to a large increase in the use of ice, particularly in the state's North-West.

The long-term impact of ice use is devastating and includes extreme weight loss, dental problems, chronic illness, anxiety, paranoia and violence, depression, heart and kidney problems and increased risk of stroke.

The government has ordered a review into drug use on the North-West Coast, which it expects to have in three weeks, and a community forum will be held at Circular Head.

As well as greater police emphasis on dismantling the criminal element, including working with the Australian Tax Office, Customs and the Australian Crime Commission, other non-enforcement groups must play a part.

Educating people, particularly vulnerable groups, about the dangers of ice use (and all drug use) is paramount.

So too is harm minimisation and rehabilitation for addicts.