Massive Drug Busts in Kent Shake County Lines Gangs
Kent Police launched a high-impact County Lines Intensification Week from 3-9 October 2022, targeting ruthless drug dealing networks and protecting vulnerable victims exploited by gangs.
£11,000 Cash, 24 Weapons & Loads of Drugs Seized
Warrants across Kent uncovered more than £11,000 in suspected criminal cash, 24 weapons, plus heroin, cocaine, and cannabis stashes. Officers made 48 welfare visits to vulnerable residents, often victims of ‘cuckooing’ where gangs take over homes to run their operations.
They also teamed up with British Transport Police, leading to the arrest of a 17-year-old caught carrying a knife in Chatham.
Key Arrests and Stunning Seizures
- A Herne Bay raid seized £13,000 worth of crack cocaine and £4,500 cash. Jack Gray, 19, from High Wycombe, and Jamie McCann, 19, from Herne Bay, were charged with possession with intent to supply and remanded in custody.
- Five suspects aged 16-21 were arrested in Gravesend, Northfleet, and Rochester. Police confiscated cannabis, weapons, phones, and cash. All were released pending further investigations.
- In Edgware, NW London, two men were arrested over alleged drug dealing tied to Canterbury. Thiago Andradu, 21, from swindon/" title="Swindon" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Swindon, is charged with supplying cocaine and heroin. The second suspect remains under investigation.
- A stop in Herne Bay led to three arrests; cannabis, a BB gun, and £1,700 cash were seized. Jason Barnfather, 24, of north London, appeared in court charged with drug supply. Two others remain under investigation.
Police Praise and Community Call to Action
“The arrests and charges during County Lines Intensification Week have seriously hit the gangs trying to flood Kent with Class A drugs,” said Detective Superintendent Lopa McDermott of Kent Police’s County Lines and Gangs Team.
“We’ve dismantled five lines and disrupted two more. Massive credit to our officers for their relentless work tracking down these criminals.
“But it’s not just about arrests. We’re raising awareness, working with partner agencies, and supporting victims in communities.
“If you suspect drug dealing where you live, report it immediately at the Kent Police website or call 999 if a crime’s happening now.”
