Wiltshire Police Smash County Lines Drug Network
Wiltshire Police launched a major crackdown from February 27 to March 5, targeting ruthless cross-county drug gangs using mobile phones to flood rural towns from big cities.
15 Arrested and Huge Drug Haul Seized
During the intense County Lines Intensification Week, officers from the Fortitude Team, Roads Policing, and neighbourhood units raided properties in Swindon, Bradford on Avon, and Devizes. They arrested 15 men, all over 18, on suspicion of drug offences.
- £5,700 worth of crack cocaine seized
- £23,000 worth of cocaine confiscated
- £17,325 cash recovered
- Four weapons including an imitation firearm taken off the streets
Three Charged, One Pleads Guilty
Steven Scoble, 37, from Devizes, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs. He remains in custody and faces sentencing on March 31.
Gabriel Rios, 22, of Swindon, and Thomas Melton Ruddock, 31, with no fixed address, have also been charged and remanded in custody for serious drug offences.
Ongoing Battle Against County Lines Crime
Detective Superintendent Ben Mant praised the operation: “These are excellent results removing thousands of pounds’ worth of drugs from our streets. We arrested 15 people and have charged three, one already pleading guilty.”
“We disrupt County Lines all year, but during Intensification Week we join forces with partners and neighbouring police to hit these organised crime groups. They bring misery and target the most vulnerable.”
“We want the public to feel reassured by this work. But we can’t do it alone, so anyone spotting suspicious activity should contact us.”
Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson added: “Drugs devastate communities – from exploiting vulnerable people to fuelling gang violence and anti-social behaviour. People across Wiltshire want dealers off the streets, and together we will make that happen.”
If you notice illegal drug activity or suspect someone is vulnerable, call Wiltshire Police on 101.
