Sussex Police Smash County Lines Drug Gangs in Major Crackdown
Sussex Police have launched a fierce week-long operation to tackle County Lines drug dealing and organised crime. Running from February 27 to March 5, the blitz aimed to catch criminals and shield vulnerable people from ruthless exploitation.
What is County Lines?
County Lines sees city gangs spreading their drug empires into smaller towns across county borders. It’s brutal business, often involving violence and the cruel manipulation of vulnerable people—including children—forced into dealing on behalf of gangs.
Massive Haul and Arrests Across Sussex
- Sussex Police executed 10 warrants.
- 27 suspects arrested during the week.
- Seized stash included 182 wraps of crack cocaine, 121 wraps and 60g of heroin, plus 71 wraps of cocaine.
- More than £15,500 in cash and five weapons were also confiscated.
Beyond raids, police reached over 4,500 students and carried out 24 safeguarding checks. They handed out educational materials in schools, raising awareness about the dangers of County Lines and organised crime.
Area-by-Area Success Stories
East Sussex
One warrant led to five arrests and the seizure of 117 wraps of crack cocaine, heroin, and cannabis, along with three phones and £240. Four adults were safeguarded after 14 cuckooing checks. The police teamed up with Crimestoppers to run an awareness van in Bexhill, Sidley, and Hastings, engaging the public and students about spotting exploitation.
West Sussex
Seven warrants and four stop-checks resulted in two arrests. Police seized five wraps of heroin and crack cocaine, nearly 300g of cannabis, 14 phones, two weapons, and £370. They conducted 13 cuckooing checks and made nine safeguarding referrals. Educational sessions reached more than 2,100 school pupils, while the Crimestoppers van toured Crawley with Sussex Police.
Brighton and Hove
Brighton and Hove saw 24 stop checks leading to 13 arrests. Officers seized over 250 wraps of crack cocaine and heroin plus 30 grams of cannabis. Three weapons and around £15,000 were also confiscated. The force arrested 20 people and made safeguarding referrals for two women, two men, and two children. Nearly 30 properties were checked for cuckooing. Police and Crimestoppers again hit the streets with a van, engaging over 2,000 students at four schools.
Police Speak Out on County Lines Fight
Detective Superintendent Stuart Hale said: “County Lines Intensification Week is a brilliant chance for the public to see how we disrupt drug supply across our county. This isn’t just a one-off—our officers work tirelessly all year round conducting warrants, doing cuckoo checks, and educating schools.”
“Too often, the vulnerable victims are overlooked. We must protect those coerced into dealing or having their homes hijacked for criminal activity.”
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne added: “County Lines is a destructive crime affecting not just those directly involved, but families, communities, and road safety. This week’s success shows the relentless work of Sussex’s specialist units and partners disrupting criminals across the region.”
“It also raises awareness among parents, carers, and professionals about spotting signs of exploitation before it’s too late.”
Sussex Police are committed to keeping communities safe and dismantling County Lines gangs for good.
