Ruthless criminal gangs involved in county lines operations, exploiting vulnerable individuals, particularly children, to engage in drug trafficking and weapon carrying, have faced a surge in law enforcement actions over the past year. Nearly 3,000 drug dealing operations have been dismantled, and close to 1,500 knives have been confiscated as part of a relentless crackdown on the illicit network.
The Mirror recently accompanied the British Transport Police (BTP) on a significant operation at Stratford railway station in east London. The operation involved over 40 uniformed and undercover police officers, drug detection dogs, and safeguarding specialists. During the operation, a missing vulnerable child connected to county lines was intercepted and provided with immediate support by attending charities and social services representatives.
On the same day, six individuals were arrested, including one for possession of class A drugs with intent to supply. Policing Minister Sarah Jones, who witnessed the operation, emphasized the violent nature of county lines crimes, where criminal groups exploit youngsters to transport drugs across the country.
David Udomhiaye, a detective superintendent at BTP, highlighted the continuous effort by uniformed and plainclothes officers to combat criminal gangs operating on the railways. The gangs exploit vulnerable individuals, including children, to carry out illicit activities. The railway system plays a crucial role in the county lines model, facilitating the transportation of drugs, weapons, and money across vast areas.
BTP adopts a safeguarding approach in collaboration with charity organizations like Catch22. Johnny Bolderson, a senior service manager at Catch22, explained how gangs exploit vulnerabilities in young individuals, offering incentives like money and status. Catch22 provides various services, including educational programs and support tailored to vulnerable individuals.
Amanda Radley, BTP’s safeguarding lead, highlighted the importance of not criminalizing exploited children and youths, aiming for supportive and protective outcomes instead of criminal justice measures. The County Lines Programme, supported by the Home Office, is part of the government’s strategy to reduce knife crime. The Mirror’s Missed campaign raises awareness of overlooked missing persons cases in the UK.
