Massive County Lines Sting Nets 17 Arrests
Police swooped simultaneously across West Cornwall and Merseyside, uncovering stash of suspected drugs and piles of cash. The raid saw 11 men, five women, and a juvenile hauled in on suspicion of money laundering and dealing Class A drugs.
What is County Lines?
County Lines gangs run drug networks using dedicated mobile ‘deal lines’ to flood suburban and rural areas with hard drugs. They often exploit children and vulnerable adults to transport drugs and cash between cities and smaller towns.
Cross-Force Operation Hits Drug Supply Networks
“This operation targeting County Lines supply between West Cornwall and Merseyside saw multiple arrests thanks to shared intelligence and close coordination between forces,” said Detective Inspector Glenn Willcocks.
Merseyside’s Detective Inspector Gary Stratton added, “This is another major joint action with Devon and Cornwall. Those arrested will be thoroughly questioned in the coming days.”
Fighting Back Against Dangerous Drug Gangs
County Lines do immense harm to communities, often using intimidation and violence to maintain control. Detective Inspector Willcocks stressed, “Criminals ignore borders, so collaboration is key to dismantling these networks and protecting vulnerable people.”
The crackdown follows last month’s major swoop which netted 40 arrests across Devon and Cornwall, with drugs, weapons, cash, and vehicles also seized.
“Our message is clear,” said police officials. “We are committed to protecting communities, supporting the vulnerable, and bringing criminals to justice.“
