Merseyside Police Operation Targets County Lines Drug Dealing, Leads to 28 Arrests

Law enforcement conducted a two-day operation targeting county lines drug dealing, resulting in 28 arrests across Merseyside. According to police statements, officers focused on railway stations and trains throughout the rail network, alongside roads, with the objective to “dismantle” drug trade routes within Sefton. Merseyside Police reported that 23 vulnerable individuals, including children and adults, were rescued, and £10,000 in cash was confiscated on October 23 and 24, following operations in the Southport and Bootle areas. Of the individuals apprehended, thirteen were detained on suspicion of offenses related to possession with intent to supply and the supply of Class A and B drugs. Authorities stated that a “quantity of Class A drugs” was confiscated during the operation, which also generated 71 new intelligence reports. Furthermore, two vehicles were seized as part of 82 stop and searches conducted by the police. Supt Paul Holden commented: “County lines causes misery for our communities so it is absolutely right that we continue to put significant effort into identifying and arresting those involved.” He further stated: “Every piece of intelligence builds a picture and can help us close a criminal enterprise and prosecute county lines gangs who are targeting children, young people and the vulnerable.”