MORE THAN 160 people were arrested in a crackdown on criminal gangs in the West Midlands who exploit children and vulnerable adults to supply drugs across the country.
The dedicated week of action – part of a national initiative targeting criminal County Lines networks – resulted in 287 arrests across the West Midlands, Warwickshire, Staffordshire, and West Merica.
In the West Midlands, 163 adults and young people were arrested for offences relating to drug dealing, drug driving, possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs, possession of an offensive weapon, cultivation of cannabis, and robbery.
County Lines refers to criminal gangs or organised networks that traffic illegal drugs from one region to another across the UK.
They typically use mobile phones – often called “deal lines” – to manage drug orders and coordinate supply routes.
And West Midlands Police say it shut down 18 of these “deal lines” throughout the week.
In total over five-kilos of crack cocaine and cocaine, more than 18kg of heroin, and more than 380 cannabis plants were seized alongside nitrous oxide cannisters, drug-laced vapes, LSD tabs and counterfeit cigarettes and 78 weapons including zombie knives and machetes.
The team also seized over £56,000 in cash, 78 mobile phones, and 12 vehicles suspected to be involved in county lines.
The team also worked with the specialist dog unit to seize one dangerous dog.
But enforcement wasn’t the only focus: safeguarding children and adults from harm remained a top priority.
During the week, 34 adults and 67 young people were safeguarded from exploitation with officers putting in extra referrals to support services.
Across the Midlands region, schools’ officers doubled their engagement from last year by hosting workshops and talks with young people about the dangers of county lines.
Detective Inspector Liane Andrews, who manages the County Lines Taskforce, said: “The force has a balanced approach towards enforcement, engagement, and safeguarding.
“By cracking down on drugs and weapons and protecting the vulnerable, West Midlands Police are making communities safer for everyone.
“We work closely with our partners in the Violence Reduction Partnership, local authority, and Home Office to coordinate long-lasting solutions that stop criminal activity spreading across the country.
“My taskforce works closely with local policing teams, and other forces, to identify those most at risk of harm from county lines and organised crime groups. Our dedicated liaison officers help our team build a better picture around safeguarding in each area of the West Midlands.
“We’re not just arresting offenders – we’re helping people to rebuild their lives. Our joint work with Catch22 ensures that those released from our custody have support, mentorship, and next steps to protect them from further exploitation. Protecting vulnerable people is our top priority.”
