650 arrests and £3 million of drugs seized in major crackdown on 'county lines' gangs

Police make 650 arrests in crackdown on 'county lines' gangs Credit: PA

Police have made more than 650 arrests and seized cash and drugs worth more than £3 million pounds during a crackdown on "county lines" gangs.

More than 100 weapons were found, including firearms and 139 "deal lines' were shut down. These lines are linked to unique phone numbers dialled by users to buy drugs.

The operations, which identified 140 children linked to the drugs trade, were carried out by the British Transport Police (BTP), Merseyside Police, the Metropolitan Police and West Midlands Force as part of an effort to smash organised crime groups.

Home Secretary Priti Patel promised action on 'county lines' Credit: PA

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "I am determined to roll up county lines drugs gangs and stop them from terrorising our towns and exploiting our children.

"I have seen first-hand the important work the police are doing to tackle county lines, and these impressive results show just how much of an impact our investment is having."

  • What does 'county lines' mean?