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Week of action cracks down on county drugs lines across the Thames Valley
09/03/2023
Over 400 wraps of cocaine, heroin and crack cocaine and at least 90 cannabis plants were seized
54 people were charged following a week of action across the Thames Valley as police continue to combat county lines drug dealing and exploitation.
During the week, which began on February 27, 102 people were arrested and 78 addresses were visited which had been taken over by a county line.
The work focused on disrupting those who look to exploit communities by carrying out drug offences and exploiting the vulnerable.
County lines drug dealing is where organised crime groups (OCGs) use phone lines to move and supply drugs, usually from cities into smaller towns and rural areas. This often exploits children and vulnerable people who may have addiction or mental health issues. Victims are often exploited by OCGs who groom, coerce and often will use intimidation and violence in order to supply drugs to others.
As well as warrants, a number of activities took place which focused on safeguarding victims of these crimes, whilst also taking measures that look to prevent people becoming victims. During this week the police safeguarded 37 people.
Drugs seized included over 400 wraps of cocaine, heroin and crack cocaine and at least 90 cannabis plants, alongside around £66,000 in cash and approximately 160 mobile phones.
A number of weapons were also seized including a baseball bat, machetes and an array of hunting, flick, Rambo and kitchen knives.
Detective Inspector Simon Hannam of Thames Valley Police’s Drugs Focus Taskforce said: “It has been an important week going forward as we have gathered really useful intelligence which will help us continue to tackle county lines drug dealing.
“We focus on combatting county lines every day, but this intensification week highlights to the public our commitment to fighting these offences.
“It should also serve as a message to offenders. We will not tolerate those who attempt to exploit our communities, and to bring drugs into them.
“We know who you are, we will arrest you, stop your supply and seize your drugs and cash.
“It is important that the public helps us in our fight against serious organised crime by reporting drug dealing or anything else which is of concern to them. If you are worried that someone you know is being exploited by drug dealers, please report it. We can then take the necessary steps to safeguard them and identify those responsible.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam