Crime

How Dyfed-Powys Police cracks down on the drug gangs exploiting West Wales

Published

1 year ago

September 2, 2024

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

***Children are often exploited according to CASCADE***

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.

***There are vast County Lines networks in the UK including into West Wales***. **Not all are shown here**

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.

***Police make drugs-related arrest in Milford Haven (Image: Herald)***

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.

Police information page

Crime

Ex-Gwent police officer now living in Pembrokeshire cleared of corruption

Published

5 hours ago

December 20, 2025

Court Reporter

A FORMER police officer from Pembrokeshire has been found not guilty of corruption following a trial at Cardiff Crown Court.

Luke Silver, aged 34, formerly of Gwent Police, had denied three charges relating to the improper use of police power or privilege. The allegations centred on claims that he made sexually inappropriate and unwanted comments to two women he encountered while on duty.

Jurors heard that one allegation involved remarks allegedly made to a woman during a police interview, while other claims related to similar conduct during separate encounters. Mr Silver denied all wrongdoing throughout the proceedings.

After hearing the evidence, a jury acquitted him of all charges.

Despite the verdict, Gwent Police confirmed that Mr Silver is no longer a serving officer. The force said he was dismissed in April following an accelerated misconduct hearing that dealt with matters separate from the criminal case.

Reporting restrictions had previously been imposed on the misconduct proceedings to prevent any potential prejudice to the criminal trial. Those restrictions were lifted following the conclusion of the court case.

The misconduct panel found that Mr Silver had breached standards of professional behaviour on two occasions, relating to honesty and integrity, and conduct likely to bring discredit on the police service.

As a result, he has been placed on the College of Policing barred list, preventing him from working for any police force in the future.

Assistant Chief Constable Nick McLain said Mr Silver was no longer employed by Gwent Police and stressed the force’s commitment to maintaining public trust.

He said the public rightly expects officers to uphold the highest standards of behaviour, adding that the force would continue to act decisively where conduct falls short.

Crime

Woman jailed for stealing £245,000 from Pembrokeshire charity

Published

8 hours ago

December 20, 2025

Court Reporter

Trustee abused position of trust, leaving organisation facing closures, job losses and tax debt

A WOMAN who abused her position at a Pembrokeshire-based charity to steal almost a quarter of a million pounds has been jailed for four years.

Liza Haines, 54, defrauded Sazani Associates, a not-for-profit organisation based in Pembroke, of £245,410.63 over a five-year period.

The charity delivers education and sustainable development programmes in Europe and Africa, working with communities in poorer regions.

Swansea Crown Court heard that Haines was both a trustee and operations manager at the organisation, placing her in a senior and trusted role with extensive financial responsibilities.

Emily Bennett, prosecuting, told the court that Haines was responsible for payroll, pensions and VAT returns, giving her direct access to the charity’s bank accounts.

Between 2018 and 2023, she systematically diverted funds for her own use.

When the fraud was uncovered, the charity’s accounts were found to be empty, leaving it unable to pay staff. Directors were forced to take out personal loans to cover wages.

The court heard that the financial damage caused by Haines’ actions led to job losses, the closure of offices in Carmarthen and Zanzibar, and the cancellation of several projects. The organisation was also left owing £93,000 to HM Revenue and Customs.

Dr Ian Clegg, a retired university lecturer and director of Sazani Associates, read a victim impact statement to the court.

He said the directors had been left “shocked and bewildered” by the betrayal, adding that Haines had been trusted to play an important role within the organisation.

Dr Clegg told the court that the directors had received threatening letters from creditors, causing serious professional and personal distress.

“This was a calculated deception,” he said, adding that the situation had taken both a physical and mental toll on those involved in running the charity.

Haines, of Clos Cilsaig, Dafen, Llanelli, pleaded guilty to fraud.

The court heard that she has a previous conviction for theft by employee dating back to 2007, when she stole around £7,000 while working as an administrator at St Mark’s Court Care Home in Swansea. She was sentenced to nine months in prison, suspended for eighteen months.

That conviction was not disclosed when she applied for her role at Sazani Associates.

Dyfed Llion Thomas, representing Haines, said her guilty plea amounted to significant mitigation and told the court she had shown genuine remorse. The court was also told that she has an elderly mother.

Sentencing her, Judge Paul Hobson said she had been fully aware of the risks of her actions but had ignored them out of greed.

“This organisation was a labour of love for those who built it,” he said.

He added: “Your work life was a sham. You knew the financial harm you were causing. The consequences of what you did have been devastating. You are an habitually dishonest individual.”

Haines was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment.

A proceeds of crime hearing is due to take place on April 23 next year.

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

1 day ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi