Intensification week sees £50,000 drug seizure and multiple dangerous weapons recovered

A coordinated crackdown on County Lines drug networks in Lincolnshire has resulted in 30 arrests, significant drug and cash seizures, and numerous dangerous weapons being removed from circulation in Lincolnshire. Most importantly, 34 vulnerable people at risk of exploitation have been safeguarded.

During a dedicated week of action, officers focused on disrupting suspected County Lines operations and ensuring that those being exploited received the support they needed. In several instances, officers intervened to protect individuals who were being “cuckooed” — a practice in which criminals take over someone’s home through force, deceit, or coercion.

County Lines refers to gangs or organised criminal groups that transport illegal drugs into different areas of the UK, typically using dedicated mobile phone numbers or other “deal lines.” Activity took place across Lincolnshire, and nationally during the intensification week.

Highlights from the operation include:

• 33 adults and 1 child safeguarded
• Public engagement estimated to have reached over 680,000 people through events, digital information boards, school visits, and many more
• 47 addresses visited where residents were potential victims of cuckooing
• 30 people arrested

Items seized:

• Approximately £50,000 worth of drugs, including crack cocaine, heroin, cocaine, and ketamine
• Cash
• 1 Section 1 firearm
• 1 Section 5 firearm
• 1 air rifle
• 57 rounds of ammunition
• 6 bladed weapons
• 1 knuckle duster
• 1 taser
• 1 meat cleaver
• 1 baseball bat
• 12 mobile phones

Detective Chief Inspector Michael Wilding said;

“Our focus is on safeguarding vulnerable people and dismantling the criminal networks that exploit them.

“County Lines groups deliberately prey on those least able to protect themselves — including children, individuals living with addiction, and adults who may be isolated or experiencing difficulties.

“These networks rely on intimidation, threats, and coercion to force vulnerable people into transporting drugs or surrendering their homes. The consequences for victims can be severe, robbing them of safety, independence, and stability.

“This intensification week highlights the real impact County Lines Groups have on our communities. By removing dangerous weapons, seizing harmful drugs, and protecting people who were at genuine risk of exploitation, we are helping to reduce that harm. But we cannot do this work alone. The public information we receive is crucial in identifying those who need support and those who pose a risk. Together, we can make it harder for these networks to operate and better protect the people they seek to exploit.

“If something doesn’t seem right and you think someone may be at risk or being exploited, please report it.”

Lincolnshire Police worked alongside British Transport Police, Department for Work and Pensions, Trading Standards, and many other agencies.

The operation was supported by Home Office County Lines surge funding through the National County Lines Coordination Centre.

If you’re concerned that someone you know may be involved in County Lines activity, more information is available here: https://www.lincs.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/cl/county-lines/