OVER £600,000 worth of drugs was seized and more than 80 arrests were made by police as part of an operation to tackle County Lines and organised criminality.

Officers from the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit (YHROCU), West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, North Yorkshire and Humberside Police were joined by the prison services, local authorities, and safeguarding partners during several targeted operations across the region.

They were to safeguard vulnerable victims, shut down drug lines, and educate young people about the dangers of becoming involved with drugs.

The national intensification week coordinated by the National County Lines Coordination Centre (NCLCC) ran from March 4 – March 10.

It is just one example of the ongoing targeted activity carried out by police and partners throughout the year to tackle County Lines and protect all impacted.

Results of the operation

In total, 83 people were arrested, £648,600 worth of drugs were seized across the region, and 137 individuals were safeguarded.

Weapons, including a firearm, five machetes and a dozen knives were seized along with £25,680, illegal vapes and cigarettes.

"Excellent results" during week of action

Detective Inspector Suzanne Gall, of the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit, said: “Officers from across all of our counties in the Yorkshire and Humber region have achieved some excellent results during this week of action.

"A number of criminal groups have been disrupted and dismantled who were exploiting vulnerable people and trafficking drugs through the region.  

“We’ve also engaged with our communities, including young and vulnerable people to ensure they are informed and educated about the risks involved.  

“Some of the most vulnerable people in our society can be significantly impacted by County Lines activity and we remain committed to targeting those involved in the supply of controlled drugs and are committed to protecting the wider community, especially the vulnerable people that are preyed upon by such criminals.”

How YOU can help

If you see something that doesn’t look right or know of any vulnerable people who may be involved in County Lines, please get in touch and help protect them.  

Alternatively, if you have concerns or information, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit their website.