Wiltshire Police Smash County Lines Drug Gangs in Major Crackdown
Wiltshire Police have dealt a serious blow to County Lines drug networks, working round the clock from February 27 to March 5. Officers from the Force’s Fortitude Team, Roads Policing Unit, and neighbourhood policing teams teamed up to dismantle gangs trafficking drugs from big cities to towns and rural areas using mobile phones.
15 Arrested and Massive Drug Haul Seized
During the intense County Lines Intensification Week, officers swooped on properties in Swindon, Bradford on Avon, and Devizes. They arrested 15 men, all over 18, on suspicion of drug offences. The haul was huge:
- £5,700 worth of crack cocaine
- £23,000 worth of cocaine
- £17,325 in cash
- Four weapons, including an imitation firearm
Key Suspects Charged and Remanded
Steven Scoble, 37, from Devizes, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs and is held in custody pending sentencing on March 31.
Gabriel Rios, 22, of Swindon, faces charges for involvement in Class A drug supply and is remanded in custody.
Thomas Melton Ruddock, 31, homeless, stands charged with possession and intent to supply cocaine and possession of criminal property. He is also in custody.
Police Keep Pressure on County Lines
Officers conducted 38 cuckoo and vulnerability checks, secured one closure order, and carried out 128 patrols of known hotspots throughout the week.
“These are excellent results and mean that thousands of pounds worth of drugs have been removed from the market,” said Detective Superintendent Ben Mant.
“We arrested 15 people and have already charged three, one of whom has pleaded guilty.”
“County Lines is a scourge on our communities, preying on vulnerable people. We work with partners all year, but Intensification Week sharpens our focus on tackling these organised criminals.”
“We urge the public to report any suspicious activity — together we can shut down these gangs.”
Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson added:
“Drugs devastate communities — leading to exploitation, gang violence and anti-social behaviour.”
“People of Wiltshire want dealers off the streets. These operations send a clear message: Wiltshire is no soft touch for drug gangs.”
See something suspicious? Call Wiltshire Police on 101 to report drug activity or vulnerable individuals in your area.
