Kent Police Crack Down on County Lines Drugs Dealers
Kent Police’s County Lines and Gangs Team hit hard between 17 and 23 May, smashing 16 addresses linked to class A drug supply. This operation was part of a nationwide blitz across England and Wales targeting county lines dealers.
£18,000 Worth of Drugs and £8,900 in Cash Seized
The raids netted over 800 wraps of heroin and crack cocaine ready for street sale, with an estimated value of around £18,000. Officers also seized nearly £9,000 in cash believed to be the proceeds of crime.
Eleven arrests followed. Six of those nabbed face serious charges and have been remanded in custody.
Meet the Charged: Teens and Adults Face Court
- 15-year-old boy from Darlington: Charged with possession with intent to supply heroin and crack. Arrested in Chatham High Street, released on bail to attend youth court in July.
- Jabari Richardson, 23, Gravesend: Charged with crack cocaine supply and assaulting an emergency worker. Remanded to appear at Woolwich Crown Court in June.
- Raheem Johnson, 18, Dulwich: Charged with supply of crack cocaine and heroin. Remanded to maidstone/" title="Maidstone" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Maidstone Crown Court.
- James Marshall, 39, Maidstone: Charged with heroin and crack supply. Remanded to Maidstone Crown Court.
- Odyssius Ojo, 19, Gillingham: Charged with possessing drugs with intent to supply and acquiring criminal property. Remanded to Maidstone Crown Court.
- Che Montaque, 23, no fixed address: Charged with heroin and crack supply. Remanded to Canterbury Crown Court.
The remaining five detainees have been released under investigation.
Protecting the Vulnerable: More Than Just Raids
Beyond busts, the team worked with partner agencies to safeguard vulnerable people exploited by county lines gangs. They visited 34 addresses linked to at-risk individuals and ran educational sessions at local schools warning youngsters about gang dangers.
“Tackling county line dealers remains an ongoing priority for Kent Police,” said Detective Inspector Martin Williams. “This week’s operation has significantly disrupted drug supply in Kent. However, our efforts will continue relentlessly against those who harm our communities by exploiting the vulnerable and dealing drugs.”
