THIS week, Dyfed-Powys Police have been actively highlighting the issue of County Lines on their social media channels and website, emphasising the ongoing efforts to combat this dangerous form of criminal exploitation.

As part of this awareness campaign, we are delving deeper into what County Lines is and its impact on communities in West Wales.

In recent weeks, a significant development occurred in Aberystwyth, where a sophisticated organised crime gang was dismantled. This gang was responsible for trafficking large quantities of cocaine and cannabis into the region. The group, which operated across various locations, was part of a larger network that used County Lines methods to distribute drugs throughout rural areas, including smaller towns like Aberystwyth. The operation culminated in the arrest and conviction of several gang members, shedding light on the extent of County Lines activity even in these relatively remote areas.

Chief Superintendent Shane Williams said: “Our number one priority is to protect vulnerable people, and this includes children, who can be as young as 12 years old, and the vulnerable adults who are ruthlessly exploited by urban gangs to do their dirty work.

“Ultimately our aim is to make the Dyfed-Powys area a hostile environment for organised crime groups, preventing all forms of harm associated with these gangs.

“Any child or vulnerable adult can be affected and it’s important to recognise that it can still be exploitation, even if the activity appears consensual.

“Our aim is to shine a light on this exploitation, and by working together with a wide range of partner agencies including local authorities, third sector agencies, housing associations, train and coach operators, identify abuse sooner so that we can intervene and keep vulnerable people safe.”

Meanwhile, Dafydd Llywelyn, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Dyfed-Powys, has consistently emphasised the importance of community resilience in tackling county lines drug operations. He has advocated for the establishment of youth clubs and early intervention programs as essential strategies to prevent young people from being drawn into these gangs.

He also highlights the adaptability of these crime groups, which poses a significant challenge for law enforcement, making community-led efforts even more critical in disrupting their activities​

County Lines is a term used to describe the practice of transporting illegal drugs from urban centers to smaller towns and rural areas. Organised criminal groups (OCGs) exploit vulnerable individuals, including children and those with mental health or addiction issues, to carry out their operations. These individuals are often coerced into becoming drug runners or are forced to allow their homes to be used as bases for drug distribution—a practice known as “cuckooing.” The sophisticated methods employed by these gangs, including the use of violence and intimidation, ensure that their operations remain hidden from law enforcement for as long as possible.

In recent years police operations locally have demonstrated the seriousness of the County Lines threat. For example, during a “County Lines Intensification Week” in 2021, Dyfed-Powys Police executed several raids, leading to the seizure of substantial quantities of heroin and cocaine, valued at over £137,000. These efforts resulted in multiple arrests and the confiscation of weapons, underscoring the significant danger these networks pose to the community.

Research conducted by Cardiff University’s CASCADE (Children’s Social Care Research and Development Centre) highlights the importance of a coordinated community response to tackle County Lines effectively. The research emphasises that collaboration between schools, social services, healthcare providers, and law enforcement is essential in identifying and protecting vulnerable individuals. The study also points to the increasing role of social media in County Lines operations, where OCGs use platforms like Instagram and Snapchat to groom and recruit young people into their criminal activities.

The CASCADE report also discusses how County Lines operations have evolved in response to increased law enforcement pressure. Gangs have become more sophisticated in their methods, using burner phones, exploiting social media, and even grooming children from more affluent backgrounds to evade detection. The report underscores the need for a nuanced approach to tackling these networks, one that involves not just police action but also preventative measures aimed at educating and protecting vulnerable populations.

One of the most troubling aspects of County Lines is the exploitation of children and vulnerable adults. Gangs often lure these individuals with promises of money or gifts, only to trap them in a cycle of debt and fear. The use of “cuckooing” allows gangs to maintain a low profile while conducting their operations, often leaving their victims isolated and terrified. In some cases, victims are subjected to extreme violence to ensure their continued compliance.

Dyfed-Powys Police have been working to raise awareness of these issues among the public, encouraging residents to report any suspicious activities. The community’s role in identifying and reporting County Lines activities is crucial to the success of these efforts. By working together, law enforcement and the community can disrupt these networks and protect those who are most vulnerable to exploitation.

What to Do If You Have Concerns

Dyfed-Powys Police encourage residents to trust their instincts when it comes to suspected drug-related activities. Even if someone is not directly involved in County Lines, they may still be a victim of exploitation. The police urge community members to report any suspicious activities through several available channels:

• Online: Reports can be made using the Dyfed-Powys Police Reporting Tool.
• Email: Concerns can be sent to [email protected].
• Phone: Call 101 to report non-urgent matters.
• Social Media: Direct messages can be sent to Dyfed-Powys Police on their social media platforms.
• Crimestoppers: Reports can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555111 or via their website Crimestoppers-UK.org.

The fight against County Lines in West Wales is ongoing, and it requires the collective efforts of law enforcement, social services, healthcare providers, community organisations, and residents. Public awareness and engagement are vital in ensuring that Pembrokeshire and surrounding areas remain safe from the harmful influence of County Lines gangs.

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