Officers who were taking part in an operation to tackle suspected county lines drug dealers in Weymouth have arrested two people and seized a significant quantity of suspected illegal drugs.
At around 4pm on Wednesday 25 August 2021 officers from Dorset Police’s CLIMATE (County Lines Investigation and Management Team) and neighbourhood policing teams were taking part in a joint operation with British Transport Police aimed at disrupting the activities of suspected county lines drugs networks in Weymouth, when they attempted to stop a vehicle in the area of Bowleaze Cove.
The vehicle reportedly made off from officers and searches were carried out. It was subsequently found unoccupied in the Littlemoor area.
Following the assistance of a police dog, a search was carried out at a nearby address and officers reportedly recognised the two occupants of the vehicle inside the premises.
The two men, aged 21 and 26 and both from London, were arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and motoring offences and a search of the property was carried out. During the search, officers reportedly found a quantity of suspected class A drugs as well as a several thousand pounds in cash.
The pair were further arrested on suspicion of possessing a class A drug with intent to supply and money laundering. They have been released under investigation as detectives from Weymouth CID continue to make enquiries.
County Lines is the term used to describe urban gangs supplying drugs to suburban areas, as well as market and coastal towns, by using dedicated mobile phone lines.
Chief Inspector Andy Edwards, of Dorset Police, said: “We are committed to working with our partners to disrupt the activities of suspected county lines drug dealers.
“This operation with British Transport Police was the latest proactive initiative we have taken part in to send a message that this kind of activity will not be tolerated in Dorset.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “This week’s joint operation with British Transport Police demonstrates a real determination to clamp down on county lines gangs who bring drugs into our small towns.
“I am absolutely committed to dealing with this problem and sending out a clear message that any criminals who want to sell poison on our streets will not be welcome in Dorset.”
For more information on Dorset Police’s efforts to tackle suspected county lines drugs gangs and how to spot the signs someone may be the subject of exploitation visit www.dorset.police.uk/countylines.
