Over 200 Arrested in Major Multi-Force County Lines Crackdown
More than 200 arrests have been made in a massive police operation targeting drug supply and gang violence along UK roads. Nine forces joined forces to hit county lines gangs running drugs and weapons across London and surrounding counties.
Police Use High-Tech Tools on Motorways
The Met, Surrey, Kent, Essex, Hertfordshire, Thames Valley, Hampshire, City of London, and British Transport Police took part in the three-day blitz. Using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and intelligence, officers tracked down vehicles linked to violent crime, focusing on major routes including the M25, M11, M4, and M20.
- 230 arrests for offences like attempted murder, drug supply, and possession of firearms and knives
- 22 weapons seized
- 54 vehicles confiscated
- 62 illegal items, including drugs, taken off the streets
- 6 search warrants executed
Chief Inspector Sounds Warning to Criminals
Chief Inspector Jack May Robinson, Violent Crime Taskforce: “This three-day operation has built on our partnerships with neighbouring forces to cut down on criminals using the road network to fuel violence. Some arrested are extremely dangerous and exploit vulnerable people for drug running. We set up a dedicated phone line to support officers with safeguarding those exploited during the arrests.”
“Drugs are deeply tied to violent crime. We will continue targeting those exploiting children and vulnerable communities. Our message is clear: if you use the roads to carry illegal goods, expect to be stopped, arrested, and prosecuted. We are working stronger together, sharing intelligence to smash county lines networks.”
City of London Police Takes Zero Tolerance Stance
T/Inspector Myles Hilbery, City of London Police: “We take a zero tolerance approach to county lines gangs that fuel violent, organised crime. These gangs exploit children and vulnerable people. We’re committed to working with partners to protect those at risk and provide support.”
“Even amid the pandemic, these gangs keep trying to operate. We won’t let up on tackling the evil they bring to our streets.”
