County lines crackdown sees £120k of drugs seized

Kent Police has seized £120k in drugs and a further £110,000 in cash

A county lines crackdown has led to 34 arrests and £120,000 of drugs seized.

Kent Police seized an additional £110,000 in cash, 14 weapons, two imitation firearms and 16 mobile phones connected to drug dealing.

The operation uncovered 10 vulnerable people including two children who were being exploited by criminal gangs.

Det Ch Insp Chris Rabey said: "These gangs use grooming tactics like buying children food or clothes to win their trust and make them feel indebted."

He continued: "It is therefore important that everyone recognises the signs of exploitation and reports any concerns to the police or another trusted organisation such as a school, charity or local authority."

The operation took place between 25 November and 1 December and was part of a nationwide push to target county lines.

As a result of the Kent campaign, 22 suspects have been charged with 69 offences.

County lines is the term used to describe drug-dealing networks connecting urban and rural areas, using phone lines across the UK.

Raids on addresses have led to 22 people charged with 69 offences

Det Ch Insp Rabey said: "We simply do not tolerate this type of activity in Kent and remain dedicated to clearing illegal substances and the people who supply them from our streets, for the benefit of everyone who lives, works and visits here."