NINETY-ONE people have been arrested this week as part of a clampdown on county lines drug dealing.

County lines drug dealing is the name given to drug dealing where organised crime groups (OCGs) use phone lines to move and supply drugs, usually from cities into smaller towns and rural areas.

This type of offending exploits children and vulnerable people who may have addiction or mental health issues.

See also: Man sentenced for carrying knife on quiet town street

As part of County Lines Intensification Week, Thames Valley Police has:

  • Arrested 91 people
  • Executed 20 warrants
  • Seized about 573 grams of crack, heroin and cocaine, 27 weapons and more than £50,000 in cash associated with drug dealing
  • Seized a total of 91 mobile phones
  • Visited 38 schools and engaged with 72 vulnerable people

The work was part of a national week of action carried out by the National Crime Agency.

Read more: Thug gets community order after string of assaults and abuse

Detective Chief Superintendent Richard List said: “This week of action has been really positive in terms of making arrests, protecting vulnerable people and seizing drugs, cash and weapons.

“We have worked with partners including local authorities, schools and charities, and have been able to educate people as to the dangers of drugs exploitation, and we have also gathered really useful intelligence which will help us continue to tackle county lines offenders going forward.

“Combatting county lines is something that Thames Valley Police focuses on every day, but this intensification week should demonstrate to the public our dedication to fight this type of offence.

See more: Oxford University to abolish controversial fee

“It should also serve as a message to offenders. We will not tolerate those who attempt to exploit our communities, and to bring to drugs into them.

“We know who you are, we will arrest you, stop your supply and seize your drugs and cash.

“It is important that the public helps us in our fight against serious organised crime by reporting drug dealing or anything else which is of concern to them. If you are worried that someone you know is being exploited by drug dealers, please report it. We can then take the necessary steps to safeguard them and identify those responsible.

“You can make a report by calling us on 101, or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”