County lines across Northern Lincolnshire more sinister, dangerous and organised than ever before
It comes as we continue to lift the lid on the activity which see's children as young as 7 used to smuggle drugs across the country
A former gang member who helps people across Northern Lincolnshire escape a life of crime says county lines is more sinister, dangerous and organised than ever before.
It comes as we continue to lift the lid on the activity which see's children as young as 7 used to smuggle drugs across the country.
Figures we've seen show it's on the rise here.
Colin James is a mediator and mentor at Gangs Unite and got involved as a drug runner in his teens.
"People my age or even younger than me are now manipulating young people to do all the work for them.
"I was someone, if I was going to do something, I would do it myself.
"We would never have sent a young person out to do anything like that back in the day.
"We didn’t groom young people; we didn’t encourage young people to get involved."
He said now is even more deadly than when he was involved.
"I was game as a child, very brave, very courageous, so something like that I would have done.
"It’s something someone could have persuaded me to do because the rewards are high, but people don’t tell you that the consequences are higher."
Colin said education and acceptance is the answer.
"There’s a divide between young people.
"Most adults fear young people, don’t want to spend time with the young people and since no one’s spending time with them, they’re left to do things themselves.
"With their immature minds they don’t really know what is harmful and what is dangerous, they don’t even know that they’re being used.
"If we’re not careful, the biggest employer of young people is going to be gangs."
What if I'm worried about a young person?
- People should report any concerns to the police on 101.
- If on a train text British Transport Police on 61016.
- Dial 999 if there is an immediate risk to a child.
- Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously online or call their helpline on 0800 555111.
What are the signs that children are being exploited?
There are a number of signs which may help reveal whether a child is being exploited by County Lines drugs gangs. It is up to the public and campaigns like #LookCloser to identify these signs and help protect children at risk.
Children looking anxious or lost
Children travelling alone frequently, either at night or during school hours, is one sign to look out for. Children that are being exploited may appear lost or unfamiliar with their surroundings. Appearing anxious, frightened and angry is also an indicator.
Carrying two phones
Being in possession of more than one phone is an indicator that children may be contacting the individuals or groups that are exploiting them.
Carrying lots of cash
Carrying large sums of money is another sign to look out for when worried that a child is being exploited.
Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Children involved with County Lines drugs gangs could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Being controlled by others
Being instructed or controlled by another individual, or being accompanied by people that are older than them, is another sign that a child may be being exploited.
Begging for money
Children that are begging in a public space is another indicator.
Where to spot children being exploited by County Lines gangs
It's important to know where children that are being exploited might be found. Buses, trains, trams and other forms of public transport are used to move children. Food outlets or roadside services may be used for children to stock up on amenities. Hotels, salons and car washes may be places where exploitation happens 'behind closed doors'.
Will there be exploited children near me?
There's a chance you might come across a child being exploited when at your place of work. They may be found in banks when moving money between accounts.
Taxis and private hire vehicles may be used by children when in contact with those who are exploiting them; it's important for taxi drivers to not ignore concerning phone conversations.
Takeaway and delivery drivers who visit residential areas and travel through public spaces may have the opportunity to identify a household in which children are being exploited. Retail workers may come into contact with children that are stealing items or begging for money, which are also signifiers.
Hotels, caravan parks and rented accommodation are used to abuse and exploit children. Workers should keep an eye out for young people checking in with adults that do not appear to be their parents.