Sussex Police have launched a major week-long operation to combat County Lines drug dealing and organised crime across the county. The crackdown, which ran from February 27 to March 5, aimed to apprehend criminals and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
County Lines is a criminal practice where city-based gangs expand their drug networks into smaller towns across county borders. This illegal activity often involves violence and the exploitation of vulnerable people, including children, who are coerced into dealing drugs for the gangs.
During the operation, Sussex Police executed 10 warrants and arrested 27 suspects. Officers seized a substantial quantity of drugs including 182 wraps of crack cocaine, 121 wraps and 60 grams of heroin, and 71 wraps of cocaine. Additionally, more than £15,500 in cash and five weapons were confiscated.
Beyond the raids, police engaged with the community by reaching over 4,500 students and conducting 24 safeguarding checks. Educational materials were distributed in schools to raise awareness about the dangers of County Lines and organised crime.
East Sussex
In East Sussex, one warrant resulted in five arrests and the seizure of 117 wraps of crack cocaine, heroin, and cannabis, along with three mobile phones and £240 in cash. Four adults were safeguarded following 14 cuckooing checks. Police collaborated with Crimestoppers to operate an awareness van in Bexhill, Sidley, and Hastings, educating the public and students on recognising exploitation.
West Sussex
West Sussex saw seven warrants and four stop-checks leading to two arrests. Officers seized five wraps of heroin and crack cocaine, nearly 300 grams of cannabis, 14 phones, two weapons, and £370. The team carried out 13 cuckooing checks and made nine safeguarding referrals. Educational sessions reached over 2,100 school pupils, while the Crimestoppers van toured Crawley alongside Sussex Police.
Brighton and Hove
In Brighton and Hove, 24 stop checks resulted in 13 arrests. Police confiscated over 250 wraps of crack cocaine and heroin, plus 30 grams of cannabis. Three weapons and approximately £15,000 in cash were also seized. The force arrested 20 people and made safeguarding referrals for two women, two men, and two children. Nearly 30 properties were inspected for cuckooing. Sussex Police and Crimestoppers engaged with over 2,000 students at four schools using an awareness van.
Police Statements
Detective Superintendent Stuart Hale commented, “County Lines Intensification Week is a brilliant chance for the public to see how we disrupt drug supply across our county. This isn’t just a one-off—our officers work tirelessly all year round conducting warrants, doing cuckoo checks, and educating schools.”
He added, “Too often, the vulnerable victims are overlooked. We must protect those coerced into dealing or having their homes hijacked for criminal activity.”
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said, “County Lines is a destructive crime affecting not just those directly involved, but families, communities, and road safety. This week’s success shows the relentless work of Sussex’s specialist units and partners disrupting criminals across the region.”
She continued, “It also raises awareness among parents, carers, and professionals about spotting signs of exploitation before it’s too late.”
Sussex Police remain committed to keeping communities safe and dismantling County Lines gangs for good.
Originally published by UKNIP.
