IT WAS a bad week to be a drug dealer in Warwickshire.
During County Lines Intensification Week, Warwickshire Police closed down three major drugs lines into the county, carried out seven warrants, arrested 14 people and seized more than £10,000 in cash, 158 wraps of class A drugs, and 424 cannabis plants.
They also seized eight weapons and four stolen motorbikes.
County lines drug criminals ruthlessly exploit some of the most vulnerable people in the community and during the intensification week, Warwickshire Police’s safer neighbourhood teams visited schools and engaged with other members of the community, raising awareness of the signs of exploitation to prevent others falling victim.
Detective Inspector Pete Sherwood, from the force’s serious and organised crime team, said: “It was a bad week for drug dealers in Warwickshire and across the country. However, we know this is an ongoing battle and for as long as drug criminals are exploiting vulnerable people, we will continue to do everything in our power to make life as difficult as possible for them.
“Everyone has a role to play in tackling this type of crime and protecting vulnerable people. It’s vital people are aware of the signs of exploitation and report their concerns.”
Signs of exploitation include displaying aggressive or violent behaviours, often going missing from home or school and being found away from their normal area, unexplained money, clothes, designer wear, jewellery, gadgets or mobile phones, having multiple mobile phones, and new peer groups and/or relationships with unknown associates.
County Lines is a term used to describe gangs and organised criminal networks that export illegal drugs into other areas across the UK, using dedicated mobile phone ‘deal lines’. County Lines Intensification Week is a national week of action to tackle the problem.
