WEST Mercia Police’s crackdown on organised drug-dealing continued as part of County Lines Intensification Week which ran from November 25 to December 1.
During the week, 68 people linked to county lines drug-dealing were arrested and £2.528million worth of drugs and £21,000 in cash were also seized.
Officers also focused on safeguarding the most vulnerable people in our society who could fall victim to being exploited by county lines gangs.
A total of 110 cuckooing visits were made to vulnerable people and 29 adults and 19 children were safeguarded.
As well as that, 20 dangerous weapons were seized, along with 81 devices.
Activity throughout the week included warrants, safeguarding visits, traffic operations and educational work in schools and care homes.
This educational work is crucial in the police raising awareness among those who may be vulnerable to exploitation.
County lines gangs often target young people, coercing them into selling drugs on their behalf.
Once recruited, these individuals face significant challenges in escaping the cycle of exploitation, as gangs frequently use fear and intimidation to maintain control.
Vulnerable adults, such as those dependent on drug use, are also targeted with county line drug dealers often taking over their home, in a practice known as cuckooing.
‘Hard work and dedication’
Det Sgt Luke Papps, from the Organised Crime Group Management Unit, said: “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our officers, along with effective collaboration between forces and partners, this has been another successful County Lines Intensification Week.
“Over £2.5million worth of drugs has been removed from our streets, and 68 arrests have been made.
“This should serve as a stark warning to county lines offenders: we are fully committed to tackling this issue head-on.”
He added he was immensely proud of the efforts to pursue offenders, but equally proud of the educational work carried out within the force’s communities.
“Education and early intervention are vital in preventing exploitation and protecting our communities from the harm caused by county lines drug dealers and gangs.
“My message to those involved in county lines is clear: we have a zero-tolerance approach.
“We will relentlessly pursue you and bring you to justice.”
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “I hear regularly from the public about the harm illegal drugs are causing in their community.
“That’s why their voices have helped shape my new police and crime plan with a key commitment to cut crime.
“The achievements made during County Lines Intensification week align with that mission and highlight the year-round work taking place by West Mercia Police to get drugs and criminal gangs off our streets.
“As PCC, I will continue to back the force with the resources it needs to build safer and stronger communities across the three counties.”
Exploitation linked to county lines could be happening on any street so it is important people know what the signs are.
Anyone who notices any suspicious activity should call police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
