Eight people charged during Northamptonshire Police's focus on county lines activity

Northamptonshire Police have revealed a week of activity focusing on county lines has led to eight people being charged with offences.

Seven drugs warrants were executed, with weapons including knives and a firearm seized.

Six females and four men were safeguarded from the activities.

Detective Inspector Carrie Powers, from the Serious and Organised Crime Team, said:

“County Lines drugs gangs cause untold misery to countless people, from those they groom to sell their drugs, to the communities where they base themselves and create fear.

“Lots of work is taking place in Northamptonshire to tackle these gangs with last week’s operation focused on disrupting their activity. Officers executed warrants to arrest people and seized their property, cash, drugs and weapons in the process.

“Alongside this, officers also conducted patrols in our neighbourhoods where people have told us they have concerns about gang activity. They also visited businesses including gyms, fast food outlets and vape shops to talk about the signs of gang activity and what action can be taken if people have concerns. Providing advice about the dangers of gang activity and child exploitation was also a priority for the week, with taxi drivers and schools engaged with in a bid to help prevent future offences.

“County lines gangs are sophisticated businesses which groom and exploit children, manipulating and coercing them into committing crimes of sexual acts with the aim of making money for those at the top of the network.

“We all have a responsibility to look out for children who may be at risk of becoming embroiled with a gang. You can find out more about exploitation on our website.”