A TOTAL of 35 people were arrested last week during an operation to target county lines activity within Warwickshire.
‘County Lines’ activity involves a group from a large urban area travelling to smaller locations to sell drugs. They may challenge an existing group from the local area or another County Lines group in order to take over the local market which often causes an increase in violent incidents.
The groups travel between urban and county locations on a regular basis to collect drugs and deliver cash. They will often use local properties as a base for their activities; this is often acquired by force or coercion referred to as ‘cuckooing’.
A week of intensification took place in the county last week (17-21 May) which included warrants at a number of addresses, various vehicle stops, visits to people at risk of exploitation, training and awareness sessions at schools, colleges, hotels and transport companies, and information leaflets were distributed to local communities.
As a result of the arrests, 10 people have now been charged, 19 people have been released under investigation, two people were returned to prison, two were wanted on warrant and have since attended court, and two cautions were issued.
An estimated total of 281 wraps of crack cocaine, 211 wraps of heroin, 6 wraps of cocaine, a significant amount of cannabis and a pot of amphetamine was seized during the week.
More than £14,000 of cash was also seized, as well as weapons including a machete, a gas-powered BB gun, CS canisters and a flick knife. More than 30 mobile phones were also recovered, alongside two vehicles.
In addition 11 vulnerable people were also identified and will be supported.
