Crackdown on County Lines: Police Launch Operation Network to Protect Vulnerable Youth
Police have rolled out Operation Network to smash county lines gangs exploiting vulnerable young people. The aim? Arrest those controlling these deadly drug routes and rescue kids trapped in the gangs.
Targeting Gangs Across London’s Rail Network
Officers teamed up with British Transport Police (BTP) at four major London train stations to spot and support abuse victims forced into dealing and delivering drugs.
The Met’s Child Exploitation Unit works hand-in-hand with the operation, offering advice and backing to safeguard exploited youngsters.
Heavy Arrests in Just One Day
The sixth run of Operation Network kicked off on Monday, 1 February, and on Tuesday alone, cops made multiple busts:
- A man fled from police after a drug-detecting dog alerted to him. When caught, he had a cannabis-filled backpack.
- Two men were nabbed for carrying knives.
- One suspect was arrested with seven different-name bank cards on him.
- Another was wanted for drug production in Birmingham.
- One man, who had absconded from immigration and was wanted by another force, was caught with forged documents.
So far, Operation Network has hauled in around 150 offenders and helped steer numerous young people away from exploitation.
Police Warn: Stay Alert and Report Suspicious Activity
Police Sergeant Gary Schofield, Met Taskforce: “County lines gangs isolate and manipulate vulnerable youths, using public transport to hide their tracks. Disrupting this cycle is crucial. Operation Network plays a key role in preventing young people from falling into a criminal web.”
BTP Taskforce Lead Detective Superintendent Gareth Williams: “Our priority is shielding exploited children and pulling them away from crime. Working with the Met on Operation Network helps us detect these kids and stop county lines across London’s railways.”
Warning signs in exploited children can be subtle. They may display aggression or anger due to trauma. If you spot anything suspicious, call police on 101, or text British Transport Police on 61016 while on a train. For emergencies, dial 999 immediately.
If you prefer to stay anonymous, contact Crimestoppers online or call 0800 555 111. Parents and carers seeking help can reach the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000.
