Suffolk Police arrest 53 in 'County Lines' drug-dealing crackdown
The force also seized more than a kilogram of Class A Drugs
Last updated 13th Mar 2023
Police in Suffolk have made 53 arrests and seized more than a kilogram of Class A drugs during the recent County Lines Intensification Week aimed at tackling drug dealing.
The week-long national operation took place from 27 February to 5 March, with 121.5g of crack cocaine, 204g of heroin and 756.6g of cocaine seized, along with £15,675 in cash.
Officers also confiscated five phones believed to be linked to drug dealing.
Suffolk police engaged with over 1,500 adults and children during the campaign, aimed at raising awareness of county lines and associated criminality, including exploitation and modern slavery.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Bodmer said that the results from the week demonstrated how different policing teams had joined forces to disrupt county lines.
Bodmer added that the police had identified and supported a number of vulnerable people who were being exploited. Community work included talking to pupils in schools about county lines and modern slavery, as well as training sessions with various organisations such as Reach Haverhill and Bury Town Pastors.
Officers also met with hotel employees and public transport companies to discuss county lines and how to report any concerns to the police.
The week of activity was coordinated by the National County Lines Coordination Centre, set up by the National Crime Agency and NPCC.