The Bermuda Police Service's inaction over its officer who was allegedly caught smoking drugs while on duty is harming the Country's anti-drugs message, UBP MP Michael Dunkley has claimed.

It is now four months since the officer was suspected of taking the drug at a football match in Sandys.

Police yesterday said the matter was still being investigated by the Acting discipline officer, Deputy Police Commissioner George Jackson, and refused to comment further.

But they revealed that the officer was still under suspension but was now only getting partial pay.

Mr. Dunkley, who is the United Bermuda Party's Home Affairs spokesman, said there was no excuse for the delay in deciding the officer's fate.

And he said he would be demanding answers in the House of Assembly after the Police again clammed up over the affair.

He said: "It's not a complicated issue. It shouldn't take more than a few weeks at most.

"I am very disturbed by this. They are procrastinating and it looks like someone is not comfortable about making a decision.

"It's an important issue and the Police have to be respected by the community. They have to lead by example.

"This makes the anti-drugs message a lot more difficult. Drugs are a very serious issue in society.'' The public would remember Police prevarication for years to come, said Mr.

Dunkley, who attacked the Service for creating a dangerous precedent.

And he said if the officer was found to be smoking the drug he should be dismissed and made to give back all the back pay he has received since his February suspension.

"The public will think the Police are trying to sweep this issue under the carpet and they will lose respect for the Force.

"There has to be public information on what went on.'' Police insiders also expressed frustration with the situation.

One said: "You have to wonder whether a member of the public would have had the same deal. A tourist would have been in court within days.'' Michael Dunkely