Police operation targeting county lines in Surrey leads to 18 arrests

An operation targeting county lines in Surrey resulted in 18 arrests and the seizure of £6,385 in cash. Surrey Police reported that between November 25 and December 1, 55 bladed articles, four firearms, and one taser were confiscated. During a designated “county lines intensification week,” law enforcement personnel visited 13 hotels and seven educational institutions, engaging with more than 200 students. Chief Inspector Nolan Heather stated: ”County Lines gangs prey on the most vulnerable members of our community for their own benefit.” He added: “The results from last week demonstrate that we are committed to disrupting County Lines operations.” The term ‘county lines’ refers to drug-dealing networks connecting urban and rural areas, utilizing phone lines across the UK. Authorities further reported that 100 stop searches were conducted, nine warrants were issued, and three individuals were charged.