Humberside Police helps to shut down four county lines operations
45 criminals were charged in two-month operation to tackle drug dealing in East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire.
Last updated 9th Jun 2021
Throughout April and May officers from Humberside Police’s Organised Crime Unit have carried out the arrest phase of a huge operation to close down four ‘County Lines’ drugs gangs supplying Class A and B drugs to Hull.
During 19 days of action across the two months, a total of 68 people were arrested (49 men, 16 women and three youths).
Of those arrested, 45 have been charged with offences relating to the possession and supply of drugs. We are continuing our investigations into the other people arrested and are confident more charges will follow.
Teams have successfully shut down four ‘county lines’ in Liverpool, London and two from Bradford. They were investigated by the Crime Team at Clough Road police station.
During the 30 warrants carried out, officers found huge amounts of drugs, including heroin, crack cocaine, spice, Valium and cannabis.
Humberside Police’s operation also tied in with the National County Lines Intensification Week, where a further 79 people were arrested across East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire. Also, a large quantity of drugs was seized, along with £1,300 worth of cash.
The team delivered information to over 150 shops, hotels and post offices and taxi companies in a bid to raise awareness on the issue.
Detective Chief Inspector Simon Vickers, Humberside Police, said:
“This has been a vast operation, taking months in the planning and gathering of intelligence and information.
“Vulnerable people, often teenagers and sometimes children, are exploited into becoming involved in organised criminality, and communities can become overwhelmed with illicit substances and anti-social behaviour that often comes with drug use and dealing.
“The community impact this type of offending has is the reason we will continue to do everything we can to disrupt these criminal networks, removing them, and the drugs they supply and distribute, from our streets.
“I would like to thank members of the public who have provided us with information so far and would appeal for anyone who believes they have any information that may be able to assist with our action against drugs to contact us on 101.
“Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you don’t feel comfortable speaking to police and would prefer to stay anonymous.”
Detective Inspector Mark Catney from the Yorkshire and the Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit, said:
“Criminals are always changing their method of operation and will often move from location to location.
“I am delighted our partnership work with Humberside Police, the National Crime Agency and the other forces in the Region including the British Transport Police to make such a difference to local communities.”
We were also able to identify five properties where it is believed the vulnerable occupiers were being ‘cuckooed’. We visited the premises and have safeguarded those involved.”