A major police crackdown on County Lines drug operations across the West Midlands has resulted in almost 50 criminals being jailed for a combined total of more than 260 years.
Taskforce Success in Tackling Drug Networks
West Midlands Police's dedicated County Lines Taskforce has achieved significant success since April, targeting organised crime groups (OCGs) responsible for supplying Class A drugs throughout the region. The specialist unit has identified approximately 250 phone lines connected to illegal drug supply and has charged more than 125 suspects with over 430 offences.
The taskforce's work has led to nearly 50 individuals being sentenced for their roles in drug dealing. In addition to the lengthy prison terms, officers have seized substantial hauls of illegal drugs and more than 100 weapons, with knives forming the majority of the confiscated arms.
Notable County Lines Dismantled
Among those successfully prosecuted were key figures behind the 'Kash Line,' which supplied drugs between Birmingham and Solihull. Raheel Khan from Sheldon and his brother Ansir Khan from Solihull operated the line, while their associate Leon Matthews transported cocaine and heroin between 2023 and 2024.
Police analysis of phone records revealed the scale of their operation, showing almost 60,000 promotional text messages sent from the main hotline number and more than 30,000 calls.
Another significant operation saw the bust of the 'Frosty Line,' which was supplying cocaine and heroin around the Black Country area of Walsall. A man has been charged with drug supply offences following raids on properties in Arundel Street, Caldmore, and Hawthorne Road, Delves.
Ongoing Commitment to Community Safety
Detective Inspector Mark Robinson of the County Lines Taskforce emphasised the destructive impact of drugs on communities. "Drugs are a scourge on our communities," he stated. "They not only ruin lives but fuel further crime to fund habits."
He praised the dedication of his team, noting that their "long hours to identify suspected lines, carry out enquiries into who operates them, and undertake enforcement activity" have been crucial to their success.
The taskforce frequently collaborates with neighbourhood policing teams across the West Midlands' seven local policing areas to gather intelligence and tackle drug supply, working as part of the broader Operation Target initiative against serious and organised crime.
DI Robinson confirmed that the work is "very much ongoing," with officers "working night and day to keep the streets safe and pursue criminals who cause harm in our region."
