Estimated £618k in drugs seized by police

Officers seized an estimated £618,000 in drugs, including cannabis, crack cocaine, powdered cocaine and heroin, West Mercia Police said

Eight drug lines have been dismantled in the West Mercia Police area during a week of action, the force says.

Drugs with an estimated value of £618,000 were seized by officers along with more than £77,000 in cash and 20 weapons. Police also made 65 arrests.

The crackdown on county lines networks from 23 June formed part of  Operation Target, the force's campaign to tackle serious and organised crime.

The force worked alongside Merseyside Police, West Midlands Police, British Transport Police and partner agencies, including councils and housing associations.

Drugs seized included a "large amount of cannabis, crack cocaine, powdered cocaine and heroin".

Machetes, swords, knives and a crossbow were among the weapons recovered.

'Hostile environment'

Officers made 34 visits to addresses believed to be forcibly used for drug dealing and as a result, safeguarded 14 vulnerable young people and adults, the force said.

The force also went to schools and community events to raise awareness of the dangers and signs of county lines operations.

Det Ch Insp Jo Woods said: "Organised crime gangs seek to profit from the exploitation of vulnerable people, spreading misery, intimidation and violence in the name of profit.

"Our aim is to create a hostile environment for these individuals who wish to cause harm to members of our communities."

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said he continued to back the force with its year-round efforts to break supply chains.

He said: "Drugs devastate communities, from addiction all the way to the exploitation of the most vulnerable in our society."