Crackdown cuts US cocaine supplies

Cocaine prices have nearly doubled in some parts of America after a successful crackdown on suppliers, the country’s top anti-drugs official said.

John Walters, head of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, said the squeeze by Mexico has led to a shortage of cocaine in 37 cities.

Mr Walters revealed the figures as he prepared for a conference of federal, and local law enforcement officials in San Diego, close to the Mexican border.

Most of America’s cocaine supply is funnelled in through its southern neighbour.

The Bush administration has praised the new government of Mexican President Felipe Calderon for its tough approach.

Mexico has sent about 20,000 troops and police to regions plagued by drug violence and extradited several high-profile traffickers.

Mr Walters said the US is preparing the first part of an anti-drug aid package to Mexico worth hundreds of millions of dollars.