County Lines dismantled in week of action
Police also made 16 arrests
Avon and Somerset Police have taken part in a national week of targeted action against County Lines drug gangs.
The gangs operate between London and Somerset to bring drugs from the capital into our county.
During the week officers conducted warrants, intercepted vehicles and increased patrols in areas known to be used by the gangs, like train stations.
Locally, the operation saw four active County Lines dismantled, as well as 16 people being arrested for offences including possession with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of drugs and conspiracy to supply drugs.
Officers seized weapons, drugs, over ÂŁ20k in cash and 26 mobiles phones during the operation.
62 addresses, thought to have previously been taken over by the gangs, were also visited and officers spoke with 35 adults considered at risk of being exploited by dealers.
D/Supt James Raphael, County Lines lead for Avon and Somerset Police, commented: “By definition, County Lines are not constrained to the borders of our region – they involve drug gangs from cities outside our force area bringing illegal substances into our communities, causing them significant harm and exposing our most vulnerable to exploitation, violence and harassment. These results show why it’s so important we work hand-in-hand with other police forces to exchange intelligence about County Lines, allowing us to strengthen our understanding of the issue and continue to make our region hostile to County Lines drug dealers.
“The work undertaken by our neighbourhood policing and engagement teams is vital in helping professionals, schools, parents, and children to be aware of this issue, to understand it and to know how to avoid it if they were to encounter it. We’re committed to keep spreading the word about County Lines and I want to make it absolutely clear that we have no tolerance for individuals bringing illegal substances into our region and exploiting our communities”.
“We have a strong relationship with the Metropolitan Police and West-Midlands Police, which has been key in facilitating the collaborative work that is making Avon and Somerset even more hostile to County Lines and those wishing to exploit vulnerable people and market their drugs here. We are delighted with the results from this week, which have resulted in fewer drug dealers on the streets and fewer County Lines operating in our area.”
PCC Mark Shelford added: “County Lines exploits some of the most vulnerable people in our communities and it is our duty to prevent this awful crime from taking place.
“Collaboration with partners, local authorities and other police forces is key to stopping County Lines from taking place both nationally and regionally, as proven by these results from the week of action. Education is also essential so parents, teachers and other adults working with children can spot the signs and know what help is available if a young adult becomes involved with County Lines drug dealers. Well done to the officers, staff and partners whose work has not only raised the profile of this crime but also took more drug dealers off the streets.”