POLICE arrested multiple people suspected of being involved in organised drug supply in a week of action.

Arrests were made, drugs seized and weapons recovered as Cumbria Constabulary targeted county lines crime.

Officers in Cumbria focused on disrupting the activities of those suspected to be involved in county lines through a number of policing tactics.

Seven arrests were made during the week, including three in Barrow and two elsewhere in south Cumbria.

Officers also seized a knuckleduster, cocaine and cash and checked homes of vulnerable suspected to have been taken over by drug gangs.

Officers also took action to safeguard vulnerable people and provided advice to people on how to spot exploitation.

County lines is the name used to describe a crime network trafficking drugs using dedicated mobile phone lines.

Detective Chief Inspector David Cooper said: “We are working harder than ever to crack down on county lines.

“We’re committed to dismantling these criminal networks and to protecting the young and vulnerable people who are exploited by gangs and are subject to violence, fear and intimidation.

“County lines is exploitative drug supply and is devastating to local communities, well beyond those who are directly involved in the local drugs scene.

“We will do all we can to stop county lines drugs criminals targeting our communities as they aim to line their pockets at other people’s misery."

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: “While the policing battle to confront county lines is always ongoing, this intensification week really highlights the positive work that the Constabulary do year-round to tackle county lines.

“I hope it also serves to remind every member of the public, that we need you to help by giving information to the police to help get drugs off our streets and to protect vulnerable and young people in our communities from this destructive trade.

“County lines destroys lives and the futures of impressionable, young people who really do deserve better than being manipulated into carrying and selling drugs across the UK and in their local areas.

“The Constabulary have done a fantastic job this week, this really sends the clear message that drug dealing and trafficking will not be tolerated in Cumbria."

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