Two arrested in County Lines operation

Two men from London have been arrested in Hertford as part of this week's Operation Mantra against County Lines drug dealing.

The two men were arrested on Monday (20th May) after officers received intelligence about an incident of cuckooing at an address in Hertford. Both men - a 21 year old and a 19 year old - were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs and assaulting the occupant of the address.

The Operation Mantis team has been executing warrants and conducted other activity targeting individuals that have links to organised crime and drug supply networks. The week of action is part of a national drive, led by the new National County Lines Co-ordination Centre, to disrupt and arrest those involved in County Lines.

Detective Chief Inspector Tracy Pemberton from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Operation Mantis team, said: "Following on from our last week of action in January, we are working with our colleagues at local, regional and national level to identify and arrest those involved in gang and drug related crime.

"We joined police forces across the country taking part in the week of action to target those who are involved in County Lines activities. These criminals set up their operations in the homes of vulnerable people and bring violence, drugs and crime to local communities. Young and vulnerable people are often the ones who suffer the most, being drawn into criminal activities, drugs and even sexual exploitation.

"We have made a significant impact on the County Lines networks operating in Hertfordshire over the last year, significantly disrupting gang activities and seizing large quantities of drugs and cash during these operations.

"We continue to work with partners to raise awareness of County Lines among young people, parents, teachers and other members of the community to help protect the vulnerable and prevent them from being pulled into this kind of activity.”

If you suspect that a property in your area is being used for criminal activity or you believe that someone you know is being exploited or coerced into crime, you should contact the police on the non-emergency number 101.