Nottinghamshire Police are intensifying their crackdown on County Lines drug gangs that exploit children and vulnerable individuals. The force is targeting offenders and disrupting their operations across the region, while also educating the public to “Look Closer” and identify victims trapped in this dangerous exploitation network.
What is County Lines?
County Lines is a criminal network where illegal drugs are transported from urban areas to smaller towns and rural locations. These gangs often cross police and council boundaries, using children and vulnerable people as drug runners. The term “County Line” refers to the mobile phone line used to take drug orders.
Detective Chief Inspector Gemma Scott explained, “Organised crime gangs who run County Lines exploit children and vulnerable adults to line their own pockets. They use debt, violence, and threats to carry out their activities and prey on the most vulnerable in our communities.”
Successes and Ongoing Battle
Nottinghamshire Police’s dedicated County Lines Team works closely with the Serious and Organised Crime Taskforce. Their persistent efforts have resulted in significant successes, including:
- JJ Logan Cross being jailed for nine years following a top-level investigation into firearms, Class A drugs, and money laundering.
- The shutdown of a County Lines operation running between Nottingham and Lincoln after a series of police raids.
These victories represent just a few of many recent achievements across the force in combating County Lines activity.
Public Help Needed to Protect Victims
Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Detective Chief Inspector Scott added, “The public are extra eyes and ears in tackling these criminal gangs head-on. Young people caught up in County Lines often use trains, buses, and taxis to travel between cities selling drugs.”
She appealed, “If you see something odd about a passenger or a young person travelling alone, call the police. Trust your instincts – speaking up could save a vulnerable life.”
To report concerns anonymously, members of the public can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. For railway-related information, tips can be sent by texting British Transport Police on 61016. Young people worried about involvement in County Lines are encouraged to speak to a trusted adult or call Childline on 0800 1111.
Originally published by UKNIP.
