Exploitation of Vulnerable People: Gangs often exploit children and vulnerable adults to move and store drugs and money. This exploitation can involve coercion, intimidation, violence, and even sexual violence.

Cuckooing: Cuckooing is a tactic. Gangs take over the home of a vulnerable person. They use it as a base for their drug operations. The term “cuckooing” comes from the cuckoo bird, which lays its eggs in other birds’ nests.

Increased Violence: Areas where drugs are transported to (importing areas) often experience increased levels of violence and weapons-related crimes.

Signs of County Lines Activity: Signs include an increase in visitors and cars to a house. New and regularly changing residents may appear. There could be unexplained new possessions. Young people might go missing for long periods.

Widespread Issue: County lines is not confined to big cities; it affects towns and rural areas across the UK. Most police forces have reported county lines activity in their areas.

It’s a serious issue that requires awareness and action from communities. Law enforcement and support services must also be involved. This involvement is crucial to protect vulnerable individuals and to combat the criminal networks involved.