In a major operation, officers from East Division, which covers the areas of Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn, Burnley, Pendle, Rossendale, and the Ribble Valley, took part in a range of targeted activities to tackle County Lines gangs and their associated violence, drug dealing, and exploitation. The operation was carried out during County Lines Intensification Week, which took place between 25 November and 1 December.
County Lines gangs are notorious for their involvement in violent and illegal activities, including drug dealing and exploitation of vulnerable individuals, often young people. These criminal networks have a devastating impact on communities and individuals, leaving behind a trail of destruction and trauma.
The operation resulted in 17 arrests, which is a significant achievement for the officers involved. Alongside these arrests, police seized a substantial amount of cash totaling £290,000, as well as cocaine and cannabis. Additionally, three swords were confiscated, demonstrating the potential for violence that these gangs are capable of.
Furthermore, officers also seized designer watches believed to have been acquired from the proceeds of crime. This highlights the extent to which County Lines gangs will go to amass wealth and accumulate material possessions.
Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Denson emphasized that the work carried out during this operation was just a small snapshot of the ongoing efforts to tackle County Lines criminals and the violence and drug dealing they bring to East Lancashire. She noted that officers and staff also participated in prevention activities to educate the public on the signs and risks associated with County Lines.
One of the primary objectives was to raise awareness about cuckooing, a practice where the home of a vulnerable person is taken over by criminals to facilitate exploitation. Cuckooing is a form of exploitation that often targets children and leaves them with devastating long-term consequences. The arrests made during this operation serve as a warning to those who engage in these activities in East Lancashire – they are not welcome and will be pursued by law enforcement.
During the week-long operation, officers distributed leaflets to members of the public encouraging them to be aware of the signs of child criminal exploitation. Some of the signs identified include children frequently going missing and then returning home with an unusual amount of clothes, mobile phones, or cash; receiving excessive text messages or phone calls; and disengaging from school or other normal activities.
The public is encouraged to report any suspicions or concerns they may have regarding County Lines activity or child criminal exploitation. By working together, we can identify these criminal networks and disrupt their operations before they have a chance to cause harm.
The success of this operation demonstrates the commitment of East Division officers to tackling County Lines gangs and protecting vulnerable individuals. It also highlights the importance of community policing and engaging with local residents to prevent and investigate drug-related offenses.
In addition to the arrests made during this operation, officers also carried out visits to addresses believed to be involved in cuckooing. These visits aimed to disrupt the activities of these criminal gangs and provide support services to vulnerable individuals who may be at risk of exploitation.
The impact of County Lines gangs on communities cannot be overstated. These criminal networks perpetuate violence, drug dealing, and exploitation, leaving behind a trail of destruction and trauma. They prey on vulnerable individuals, including children, and exploit them at will.
The arrests made during this operation send a clear message – those involved in these criminal activities will be pursued by law enforcement and held accountable for their actions. The public can play a crucial role in identifying these criminal networks and bringing them to justice by reporting any suspicions or concerns they may have.
East Division officers are committed to continuing their efforts to tackle County Lines gangs and protect vulnerable individuals. By working together with local residents and engaging in targeted prevention activities, we can create safer communities where individuals feel empowered to report suspicious activity without fear of retaliation.
As we move forward in this fight against County Lines gangs, it is essential that we remain vigilant and continue to work together to disrupt their operations and protect our communities. The success of this operation demonstrates that when we work together, we can make a significant impact in reducing drug-related crime and protecting vulnerable individuals.
In conclusion, the success of this operation is a testament to the commitment of East Division officers to tackling County Lines gangs and protecting vulnerable individuals. It highlights the importance of community policing and engaging with local residents to prevent and investigate drug-related offenses. As we continue this fight against County Lines gangs, it is essential that we remain vigilant and continue to work together to disrupt their operations and protect our communities.