It follows a number of high-profile drug busts in Launceston where significant amounts of cash and ice were seized. 

Northern CIB Detective Inspector John King said there had been a spike in methamphetamine seizures and alleged trafficking in recent months. 

‘‘A year ago, it was more like 1.5 kilograms,’’ he said yesterday.

‘‘And at the same time this year, we are around 1.7 kilograms.’’

He said a combination of the greater prevalence of the drug in the community and more targeted police operations had contributed to the increase.

‘‘Our dedicated taskforces that have been aimed at tackling the problem are aimed at the higher end trafficking operations,’’ Inspector King said.

‘‘We are expecting to lay more charges.’’

The latest police statistics show that from July to September 2014, Northern police charged the highest number of serious drug offenders, 55, followed by the South with 44 and the North-West on 31.

Of the 55 serious drug offenders charged in the North, 21 cases related to amphetamine-type drugs, a higher number than in the South with 16, or the North-West on eight.

Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten said ice was a particular concern because of the harm it caused.

He said it was up to the community as a whole to ensure people did not abuse illicit drugs.

Tasmania Police believes most of the ice is being brought into the state through airports or via the post. 

‘‘We believe we have an appropriate policing response at the airport,’’ Inspector King said.