County Lines Crackdown Nets Weapons, Drugs and Cash in Kent
Kent Police launched a no-nonsense crackdown during County Lines Intensification Week from 3-9 October 2022. The operation targeted ruthless drug gangs and their victims, leading to significant seizures and arrests.
£11,000 and 24 Weapons Seized as Police Close In
Warrants across Kent uncovered over £11,000 in suspected criminal cash. Officers also confiscated 24 weapons alongside heroin, cocaine and cannabis. A total of 48 welfare visits were made to vulnerable individuals at risk of exploitation by county lines gangs. These criminals often use ‘cuckooing’—taking over homes as drug bases.
Police teamed up with British Transport Officers to patrol railway stations, resulting in the arrest of a 17-year-old carrying a knife in Chatham. Multiple partner agencies joined forces to coordinate a county-wide response, including visits to hotels to educate staff on spotting suspicious activity.
Key Arrests and Seizures Across Kent and London
- Herne Bay: A major haul of crack cocaine worth around £13,000 and £4,500 cash was seized. Jack Gray, 19, from High Wycombe, and Jamie McCann, 19, of Herne Bay, face charges for possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine. Both remain in custody.
- Gravesend, Northfleet & Rochester: Five suspects aged 16-21 arrested. Police seized cannabis, weapons, phones and cash. The group has been released pending further investigation.
- Edgware & Canterbury: Two men arrested over drug dealing tied to Canterbury. Thiago Andradu, 21, from swindon/" title="Swindon" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Swindon, charged over cocaine and heroin supply; the second man is under investigation.
- Herne Bay Vehicle Stop: Three arrested after officers stopped a car linked to county lines. Cannabis, a BB gun, and £1,700 cash confiscated. Jason Barnfather, 24, from North London, charged with heroin and cocaine supply. Two others released under investigation.
Police Warn: Report Suspicious Drug Activity Now
“The arrests and charges secured during County Lines Intensification Week will seriously disrupt the supply of Class A drugs in Kent,” said Detective Superintendent Lopa McDermott of Kent Police’s County Lines and Gangs Team.
“We believe five county lines have been dismantled with two more severely disrupted. I want to commend our officers’ tireless work tracking and researching these criminals to bring them to justice.
“But enforcement is only part of the battle. Raising awareness and supporting victims remain critical. We urge anyone suspecting drug dealing in their neighbourhood to report it via the Kent Police website or call 999 if a crime is happening now.”
