DOZENS of weapons including knives, knuckle dusters, and air guns have been seized in a week-long crackdown on county lines activity in Herefordshire and surrounding counties.

West Mercia Police officers seized 68 weapons along with class A drugs to a street value of around £6,500, while 19 arrests were made across Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire.

Cash, five mobile phones and two vehicles also seized during the simultaneous warrants across our counties.

Officers visited ‘cuckooed’ homes believed to be being exploited by drug dealers. They identified and safeguarded 11 vulnerable people at risk of being exploited. Officers also engaged in education activity with fast food outlets, care homes, schools, local authorities, petrol stations and travel hubs across the counties.

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County lines criminal activity is an ongoing priority and is targeted as part of the force’s overarching Protect campaign. This campaign seeks to tackle organised crime and disrupt those causing the most harm in our communities.

Chief Superintendent Damian Barratt said: “West Mercia Police is no different to any other police force across the country where county lines drug dealers are exploiting vulnerable children, young people and adults.

“Organised crime groups are targeting our local communities and exploiting vulnerable people to transport drugs into our counties.

“These groups are often involved in serious violence and do not think twice about putting vulnerable people in frightening situations, causing them to make decisions that can ultimately change their lives and the lives of others forever. We are determined to do all we can to stop this from happening.

“The consequences are far and wide and cause a ripple effect during the intensification week a vehicle inadvertently collided with an elderly couple in Shropshire, luckily the couple was not hurt, and the vehicle seized and man was arrested.

“We’re committed to tackling serious and organised crime as part of our ‘Protect’ campaign. No matter what the circumstances, our officers are here 24/7 365 days a year to protect people from harm.”

To report concerns about county lines visit the Tell Us About section of www.westmercia.police.uk. Alternatively, information can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is independent of the police and completely confidential.