70 arrested in Lancashire as drug networks 'dismantled' and samurai sword seized
Lancashire Police seized weapons including machetes, a samurai sword and a stun gun.
70 people have been arrested and ‘significant’ quantities of cash, weapons, drugs and mobile phones have been seized across Lancashire as part of a major national operation.
Officers from across the county carried out a programme of targeted enforcement and safeguarding activity as part of County Lines Intensification Week - between March 2 and 8.
County lines is the term used to describe a method of drug supply where organised criminal groups use dedicated mobile phone lines to distribute drugs, often moving them from larger cities into smaller towns and rural areas.
Lancashire Police said: “These groups frequently exploit young people and vulnerable adults, coercing them into transporting drugs, money or weapons.”
Activity across Lancashire during the week included:
- 70 arrests made
- 3 County Lines drug networks ‘dismantled’
- 45 people safeguarded, including victims of cuckooing
- Seizures of heroin, crack cocaine and cannabis
- Over £97,000 in cash recovered
- 10 weapons, including machetes, a samurai sword and a stun gun seized
- 52 mobile phones seized
- Engaged with 330 young people across Lancashire, educating them on the issue of County Lines.
Lancashire Constabulary’s Force lead for County Lines Detective Chief Inspector James Edmonds said: “County lines exploitation continues to cause real harm in our communities, and this intensification week has shown just how committed we are in Lancashire to disrupting these networks and protecting the vulnerable.
“Our teams have worked tirelessly, carrying out warrants, safeguarding children and adults at risk, and targeting those who think they can profit from exploitation.
“This work doesn’t begin and end with a week of action. This work goes on all year round with partners to identify offenders, support victims, and make our neighbourhoods safer.
“We will continue to be relentless in pursuing those involved in county lines and ensuring they face the consequences of their actions.”
Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “Organised crime and cross‑border gangs cause serious harm to communities here in Lancashire and across the wider region.
“Through Operation Warrior, we are taking decisive action to remove drugs from our streets, protect vulnerable people, and ensure that those suspected of gang-related crime are tracked down and brought to justice, wherever they operate.
“This work depends on strong partnerships between police forces and the Northwest Regional Organised Crime Unit, enabling us to stay one step ahead of offenders and dismantle these criminal networks.
“I will continue to support the Constabulary in its relentless pursuit of serious and organised crime, stripping criminals of their assets and delivering on my Police and Crime Plan priorities through strong leadership and robust scrutiny.”
For more information and how to spot the signs of exploitation, visit County Lines - Spot The Signs | Eyes Open (eyes-open.co.uk)
If you believe that someone may be involved in County Lines or other drugs activity, you can report it by calling 101.
Alternatively, you can report it via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report your concerns anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk-org. If you think someone is in immediate danger, call 999.