Police disrupt county lines activity in Torquay

As part of Devon & Cornwall Police’s effort to disrupt county lines activity, police officers in Torquay carried out a number of targeted activities to tackle drug dealing, educate the public and safeguard vulnerable people.

As part of Devon & Cornwall Police’s effort to disrupt county lines activity, police officers in Torquay carried out a number of targeted activities to tackle drug dealing, educate the public and safeguard vulnerable people.

The intensified action led by the Neighbourhood Support Team resulted in the seizure of a number of items including a quantity of cannabis and a suspected stolen watch. An individual was arrested for being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs after being found in possession of £1,300 in cash and a burner phone. Another individual was arrested for possession of a knife with a locking blade.

Inspector Chris Lithgow said: “County lines activity can happen anywhere. This work aims to disrupt and deter OCGs from operating in our communities, showing that we are taking action against drug activity and will pursue individuals involved. A large part of our action also involves officers safeguarding vulnerable people and educating the public around county lines and exploitation.”

County lines is the name given to drug dealing where organised criminal groups (OCGs) use phone lines to move and supply drugs, usually from cities into smaller towns and rural areas. They exploit vulnerable people, including children and those with mental health or addiction issues, by recruiting them to distribute the drugs. This is often referred to as ‘drug running’. Criminals may also use a vulnerable person’s home as their base of operations. This is known as ‘cuckooing’.

19 intelligence-led visits were made to people who were suspected to be vulnerable to ensure they had support in place and were not a victim of exploitation by an OCG. Police officers engaged with nearly 40 hotels, B&Bs and guest houses to raise awareness of county lines exploitation. They spoke with staff about the signs to look out for and how to report it if they suspect illegal activity taking place on their premises.

Reporting information is key in helping the police tackle criminal activity in your area. Insp Lithgow commented on the importance of your information: “Our officers can’t be everywhere all of the time, which is why it’s vital that you tell us what’s going on. You know your community and neighbourhoods – if something doesn’t look quite right, submit a report to us. If you don’t feel comfortable coming to us directly, you can report 100% anonymously via Crimestoppers.”

For more information about county lines, cuckooing and the signs to look out for, visit the Devon & Cornwall Police website: County lines | Devon & Cornwall Police