Major County Lines Crackdown Results in Over 160 Arrests and 18 Deal Lines Shut Down
West Midlands Police have executed a significant operation against County Lines drug networks, resulting in more than 160 arrests and the shutdown of 18 deal lines during a dedicated week of action. This crackdown, part of a national initiative, targeted criminal gangs exploiting vulnerable individuals across the region.
Extensive Seizures and Safeguarding Efforts
During the operation, law enforcement officers seized substantial quantities of illegal substances and dangerous weapons. The confiscated items included:
- Over 5kg of crack cocaine and cocaine
- More than 18kg of heroin
- 380 cannabis plants
- Nitrous oxide cannisters, drug-laced vapes, LSD tabs, and counterfeit cigarettes
Additionally, police confiscated over £53,000 in cash, 78 mobile phones, a dozen vehicles, five firearms, and 78 weapons, including zombie knives and machetes. These seizures significantly disrupt the operational capabilities of the targeted criminal networks.
Protecting Vulnerable Individuals from Exploitation
A crucial aspect of the operation focused on safeguarding vulnerable adults and children from exploitation by County Lines gangs. Officers safeguarded 34 adults and 67 young people, providing extra referrals to support services to help them rebuild their lives away from criminal influence.
Police visited 25 suspected cuckooed properties, where criminals take over the homes of vulnerable people to establish bases for drug dealing. This proactive approach aims to protect communities and prevent further exploitation.
Coordinated Law Enforcement Strategy
Detective Inspector Liane Andrews, who manages the County Lines Taskforce, emphasized the force's balanced approach. "We have a balanced approach towards enforcement, engagement, and safeguarding," she stated. "By cracking down on drugs and weapons and protecting the vulnerable, West Midlands Police are making communities safer for everyone."
The taskforce collaborates closely with local policing teams, other forces, and partners such as the Violence Reduction Partnership, local authorities, and the Home Office. This coordination ensures long-lasting solutions to combat criminal activity spreading across the country.
National Impact and Ongoing Support
The week of action resulted in 287 arrests across the West Midlands, Warwickshire, Staffordshire, and West Mercia, demonstrating the widespread impact of County Lines networks. Beyond arrests, the initiative includes joint work with organizations like Catch22 to provide support, mentorship, and next steps for those released from custody, protecting them from further exploitation.
County Lines refers to criminal gangs that traffic illegal drugs from one region to another using mobile phones as deal lines to manage orders and supply routes. This crackdown highlights ongoing efforts to dismantle these networks and enhance community safety throughout the West Midlands and beyond.
