Kent Police Smash County Lines Drug Gangs in Major Crackdown
Kent Police launched a fierce week-long offensive from 3 to 9 October 2022 targeting ruthless county lines drug networks. Coordinated raids and welfare checks aimed to hit dealers hard and protect vulnerable victims.
Cash, Drugs and Weapons Seized in Sweeping Raids
Warrants across Kent uncovered over £11,000 in suspected criminal cash alongside 24 weapons. Huge hauls of heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, and cannabis were also confiscated.
- In Herne Bay, officers seized crack cocaine worth around £13,000 and £4,500 in cash. Jack Gray, 19, from High Wycombe, and Jamie McCann, 19, from Herne Bay, face charges of possessing heroin and crack cocaine with intent to supply. Both are remanded in custody.
- Five suspects aged 16-21 were arrested in Gravesend, Northfleet, and Rochester. Police confiscated cannabis, weapons, phones, and cash. The five have been released pending further investigation.
- Two men were arrested in Edgware linked to drug dealing in Canterbury. Thiago Andradu, 21, from Swindon, was charged with supplying cocaine and heroin. His accomplice remains under investigation.
- In Herne Bay, three men were arrested in a car linked to a county line. Police seized cannabis, a BB gun, and around £1,700 cash. Jason Barnfather, 24, of North London, has been charged with drug supply; the others were released under investigation.
Protecting the Vulnerable and Cracking Down at Train Stations
Officers made 48 welfare checks on vulnerable people at risk from county lines gangs, who often ‘cuckoo’ homes to establish drug bases. Collaboration with British Transport Police led to the arrest of a 17-year-old caught carrying a knife in Chatham.
Police also visited hotels across Kent, educating staff on recognising and reporting suspicious activity linked to county lines.
Top Cop: ‘Five Drug Lines Dismantled, Two More Disrupted’
Detective Superintendent Lopa McDermott from Kent Police’s County Lines and Gangs team said: “The arrests and charges during County Lines Intensification Week have seriously disrupted Class A drug networks operating in Kent. We believe five lines have now been dismantled, with two others significantly disrupted.
“Huge credit goes to the officers whose relentless work helped bring these criminals before the courts. Beyond arrests and searches, it’s vital we raise awareness among partners and support victims in our communities.
“I urge anyone spotting drug dealing activities to report them immediately on the Kent Police website, or call 999 if a crime is underway.”
