Thames Valley Police Hits Hard in Week-Long County Lines Crackdown
Thames Valley Police has launched a heavy-hitting week of action to slam down on county lines drug dealers exploiting vulnerable communities.
This operation was part of a nationwide blitz led by the National Crime Agency targeting organised crime groups (OCGs) that exploit children and vulnerable people through drug supply chains.
Massive Raids Across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire
The force executed 20 warrants across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, and Oxfordshire, striking a heavy blow as part of its ongoing Stronghold campaign to dismantle serious organised crime.
County lines drug dealing involves OCGs using phone lines to push crack, heroin, and cocaine from cities into smaller towns and rural areas, often exploiting kids and vulnerable adults through intimidation and violence.
Seizures, Arrests and School Education Drive
- 91 arrests made
- Over 573g of crack, heroin and cocaine seized
- 27 weapons and 91 mobile phones confiscated
- More than £50,000 in cash recovered
- 38 schools visited to educate pupils and teachers
- 72 vulnerable individuals engaged for safeguarding
Alongside enforcement, Thames Valley Police introduced a fresh lesson plan for schools featuring Dee, an ex-offender, who shares his harrowing experience of child drug exploitation to warn youngsters of the dangers.
Knife arches were set up at railway stations, backed by sniffer dogs and high-visibility patrols to curb knife crime tied to drug gangs.
Detective Chief Superintendent Issues Stark Warning
“This week of action has been really positive in terms of making arrests, protecting vulnerable people and seizing drugs, cash and weapons,” said Detective Chief Superintendent Richard List.
“We’ve worked closely with partners including schools and local authorities to educate and safeguard communities. The intelligence gathered will help us keep county lines criminals off our streets.”
“We want the public to know that we won’t tolerate those exploiting this region. We know who you are, we will find and arrest you, seize your drugs and cash.”
“If you suspect someone is at risk or involved in drug dealing, report it immediately. Together, we can protect our communities and stop the criminals.”
