Norfolk Police arrest twelve in county lines drug gang crackdown
Class A drugs, knives and a hammer were seized
Norfolk Police tell us they've arrested twelve people and shut down at least two county lines phone networks - as part of a national week of action against county lines drug gangs.
Class A drugs, knives and a hammer were seized as part of warrants that were carried out in Norwich, Thetford, King's Lynn and Great Yarmouth last week.
Arrests for offences across the week included possession with intent to supply and being concerned in the supply of Class A and B drugs.
The week of activity, between 4-10 March 2024, was coordinated by the National County Lines Coordination Centre set up by the National Crime Agency and NPCC.
Other work during the week included working with taxi companies to ensure they know what to look for and how to report suspicious behaviour.
Officers and staff also visited vulnerable residents and held engagement events with young people and businesses.
"This work never stops"
Inspector Jo Minnis, County Lines lead for Norfolk Constabulary, said: “It is important to note this work never stops.
“We will look to disrupt serious and organised crime, drug dealing and other associated criminality every day of the year, and wherever possible, bring those responsible to justice.
“While this week highlights the continued efforts to tackle those dealing drugs, it was equally an opportunity to reach out to vulnerable members of the community.
“Often those most affected are some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.
“We have visited a number of homes whose occupants have been or may be victims of cuckooing, which is where vulnerable adults’ homes are used as a base for criminal activity; we continue to support those affected by drugs and addiction; and we work with partners to divert young people away from crime, and support those who are being exploited by the dealers and gang leaders.”
What is County Lines?
It's the name given to a drug dealing model which involves criminals using phone lines to help supply Class A drugs, normally between a major city and another county.
The line holder often exploits young people and children to move the drugs between counties or coerce vulnerable adults by taking over their addresses from where they deal drugs – this is known as cuckooing.