County Lines officers seize drugs and arrest suspected dealers

Drugs and a stun gun were seized during the raids.

Police arrested multiple suspected dealers and took drugs and weapons off the streets during a week of action.

Officers carried out a number of raids and other enforcement activity during the national County Lines Intensification Week, which ran from 25 November to 1 December.

County Lines is a term used to describe gangs supplying drugs to other parts of the UK using dedicated mobile phone lines.

The week of action aimed to disrupt those involved and protect the vulnerable people they coerce into criminal activity.

Three people were arrested in connection with a drugs line running between Nottingham and Ilkeston, Derbyshire, after officers pursued a car suspected to be involved.

A number of phones were seized following subsequent searches.

Two men, aged 25 and 37, as well as a 37-year-old woman, were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a Class A drug.

Officers also seized Class A drugs, large vacuum-packed bags of cannabis and a stun gun during a raid on a property in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, which was believed to be linked to a further line operating between Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

A 27-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs, possession with intent to supply a Class B drug and possession of a firearm.

Officers also arrested a 27-year-old woman on suspicion of possession with intent to supply a Class B drug, possession of a firearm and possession of a Class A drug.

Detective Sergeant Sarah Gregg, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“Criminals working in the County Lines business models cause a significant amount of harm through the exploitation of vulnerable people, often using children to transport and supply Class A drugs.

“These groups also spread misery among the communities in which they operate, and this is why it is a priority for the force to target and disrupt those believed to be involved.

“The arrests and seizures made are really positive developments, and it is testament to the hard work, dedication and teamwork shown by officers.”

Anyone who has information regarding drug dealing in their area, is urged to call Nottinghamshire Police on 101, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or dial 999 in an emergency.

For more information please visit: https://www.nottinghamshire.police.uk/advice/county-lines