Look Closer: Police seize £50k, Class A drugs, weapons and mobiles on transport network
Our investigation into County Lines drugs gangs hears how British Transport Police officers target criminal activity
A crackdown on County Lines drugs gangs by British Transport Police has resulted in more than 40 arrests, and a dozen young people identified as being exploited.
Our Look Closer investigation is lifting the lid on how these gangs operate nationally, using young and vulnerable people to move drugs and cash around the country.
Today we can reveal that in just a single week British Transport Police:
- Seized £49,505 in cash on the transport network
- Made 52 separate drug seizures, including Class As & Bs
- Removed 32 dangerous weapons from the railways
- Discovered and safeguarded 12 young people, and three adults
READ MORE: What is County Lines?
County Lines gangs targeted
BTP teamed up with local forces and the Home Office during a "week of action" which saw 88 operations up and down the country's transport network
43 phones were seized. Mobiles are the main form of communication between gang members.
Overall, 41 arrests were made.
As well as operating on the rail and road network, officers also targeted a "cuckooed" address where suspected criminals take over a property to use it as a base for their operations.
Often the resident is vulnerable and unable to seek help.
County Lines gangs on the rail network
Chief Inspector Rachel Griffiths from British Transport Police told us: "Safeguarding is at the heart of what we do, and at the crux of County Lines is vulnerable people, children and people with disabilities.
"We want to safeguard these individuals and stop them coming to any harm."
CI Griffiths told us how gangs try to outsmart the Police to get their goods and cash through the rail system: "They will try and send people through when they think we don't have police about like shift changeover times, and we're aware of this.
"We will change shifts at short notice, we will deploy staff discreetly, so we use a variety of tactics with uniformed officers and plain-clothed officers."
During operations, officers will put a barrier around the station and look out for unusual behaviour, such as someone who appears to be avoiding the police, or concealing cash or other objects on their body.
READ MORE: A mum tells us how a County Lines gang groomed her 15 year old son
What to do if you're 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.