Drug Dealer Nabbed After Police Sting Over Hire Car Linked to County Lines
Police have busted 29-year-old Blessed Sithole, who was caught red-handed in a crackdown on county lines drug dealing in Kent. The proactive team traced a hire car connected to the operation back in April 2022.
Blue BMW and ‘Taylor’ Text Helped Crack the Case
Officers zeroed in on a blue BMW believed to be used by a county lines gang pushing class A drugs. The network advertised via the text name ‘Taylor’ to hook users. Investigations linked Sithole directly to the car, leading to a warrant at his Gore Mews home on April 26. He was arrested elsewhere in the city that same day.
Cash, Phones and More Evidence Uncovered
- Large amounts of cash seized
- Two mobile phones confiscated
- Messages offering the ‘best of both’ heroin and crack cocaine found on devices
While out on bail, Sithole didn’t learn his lesson. He got hold of another hire car and phone, intending to keep dealing drugs. The police caught him again in June and slapped new charges on him.
Three Years Behind Bars and Ongoing County Lines Fight
At Canterbury Crown Court on November 2, Sithole admitted his crimes and was sentenced to three years for class A drug supply offences.
Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Talboys praised his team’s relentless efforts. “This proactive investigation shows how my officers seek out and arrest those who try to sell class A drugs on the streets of Kent,” he said.
October’s takedown by the County Lines and Gangs Team saw:
- 34 years’ worth of prison sentences handed out
- 42 arrests made
- 54 charges secured
- £15,000+ in suspected criminal cash seized
- 32 weapons confiscated
These results came during County Lines Intensification Week, underlining the force’s commitment to dismantling drug networks exploiting vulnerable communities.
Want to help fight county lines? Click here for more information and ways you can support the cause.
