Over 80 arrests made as nine forces unite to tackle drug gangs

More than 80 arrests have been made during a major operation involving the joint work of nine police forces to disrupt drug gangs.

Over three days last week (13 January to 15 January), officers were deployed across key motorways and routes, where they used Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology and intelligence-led tactics to identify vehicles linked to serious crime.

This resulted in than 86 arrests for offences including possession of class A and class B drugs, assault, theft of motor vehicle and driving offences. Officers also seized over £10,000 in cash, completed over 50 drug seizures and 59vehicles were taken off the road during the operation.

Officers from the British Transport Police, City of London, Essex, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, the Metropolitan Police, Surrey and Thames Valley were involved in the operation to target county lines gangs and criminals travelling across counties.

Specialist teams involved included the Violent Crime Taskforce, Tactical Firearms Officers, Dog Support Unit, Roads and Transport Policing Command, and Specialist Crime officers.

Detective Superintendent Clare Smith said: "We’re always working with neighbouring forces and other forces up and down the country to tackle criminals who travel into Hertfordshire causing harm.

“This operation demonstrates the power of collaboration. By working together across multiple forces, we’ve sent a clear message to criminals who exploit our road networks: you will be found, and you will be brought to justice.

“I want to thank the forces involved for their tireless work to make sure it was a success.“County lines gangs cause immense harm, exploiting vulnerable people and driving violence in our communities. By combining intelligence and resources, we’ve made it harder than ever for these criminals to operate.

“Our work doesn’t stop here, and we will continue to target those who traffic drugs and weapons. You can help us with this by sharing any information about potential drug dealing taking place in the communities where you live and work.

“I want to thank the public across the county for the reports and information we receive daily, your role is vital in our work, and your assistance is greatly appreciated.”

You can report information online, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form.

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