Drugs gangs targeted in raids

Criminals who exploit vulnerable adults and children to peddle and store drugs will not escape the law, police chiefs have warned.

Police Scotland yesterday confirmed it had engaged with 29 vulnerable people as part of a week-long operation targeting County Lines drug dealers.

Referring to criminals from larger cities who expand their operations into smaller towns, County Lines exploit young and vulnerable people to sell drugs, carry cash and weapons to outlying areas of larger cities.

They may also take over a vulnerable person’s house known as cuckooing.

In the week to Sunday, officers visited 64 households and arrested 20 people.

Heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine and cannabis with an estimated street value of £ 40,000 were seized alongside over £ 20,000 in cash and weapons.

Police Scotland’s Assistant Chief Constable Pat Campbell said :“County Lines gangs are not welcome in Scotland,

“Our officers remain absolutely committed to working with our partners to reduce the exploitation of vulnerable people and safeguard individuals who may be at risk, and pursue offenders.

“As ever, I would urge anyone with concerns to report them to Police Scotland or alternatively to Crime stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”