County Line smashed and children safeguarded in joint operation to tackle drug dealing

Cheshire Constabulary joined forces with British Transport Police’s (BTP) County Lines Taskforce to tackle drug dealing in Chester in a two-day operation this week.

Working together, a team of around 60 officers executed five warrants across the city and carried out 39 stop searches.

Six children were identified as being at risk of exploitation and immediate safeguarding measures were taken to ensure their protection.

An active drug line was also dismantled and 13 people were arrested for a range of offences including cultivation of cannabis and possession with intent to supply.

Quantities of cannabis, Class A drugs and pills were also seized as well as mobile phones and cash.

The BTP Taskforce’s safeguarding team is made up of social care experienced professionals, along with local agencies. They raise awareness, engaging with young people and businesses. They are also ready to offer immediate support to those identified by officers as potential victims.

Inspector James Wilson, of Chester Local Policing Unit, Cheshire Constabulary, said:

“Operations like this are so important in highlighting how different forces work together to tackle issues like County Lines drug dealing. But remember this is just a snapshot of the tactics we have at our disposal – and use every day - to tackle criminal activity in Chester.

“The work which has been carried out across the past few days with BTP was all about disrupting the supply of drugs and safeguarding vulnerable people, while raising awareness of County Lines drugs offences and how to report any information to police.

“Drug-related activity will not be tolerated in Chester and we will continue to work with BTP to stamp down on such behaviour.”

BTP County Lines Taskforce Detective Inspector Brian Buddo said:

“Drugs destroy lives. Every day we’re at stations and on trains across the country using a range of resources to target offenders involved in drug supply, as well as identify and safeguard children exploited by gangs to move drugs between locations.

“Six children have now been identified as being at risk of exploitation and fast track referrals are now in place to ensure their safety. That’s six lives potentially saved from the clutches of drugs gangs.

“Along with the dismantling of an active drugs line and drugs and weapons taken off the streets, joint operations like these prove that working together leads to real time results.

“Passengers who spot the signs of child exploitation or drug supply on the railway are urged to report it to us by texting 61016.”