🌟 County Lines Awareness Week: What Is County Lines? 🌟

Resident

County Lines is a major issue affecting communities across the UK — and awareness is one of the strongest tools we have to protect vulnerable people.

🔍 What Does “County Lines” Mean?

“County lines” refers to drug dealing operations where organised criminal groups (OCGs) transport illegal drugs from cities into smaller towns, rural areas, and coastal communities. They use dedicated mobile phone numbers — known as “deal lines” — to coordinate orders and communication. 

👥 Who Do County Lines Gangs Target?

A core feature of county lines is the exploitation of vulnerable people, especially:

Criminals manipulate, threaten, or groom individuals to move drugs, store drugs, carry cash, or allow their homes to be used as a base — a tactic known as cuckooing. 

🛑 Why Is It So Dangerous?

County lines activity is strongly linked to:

Many victims don’t realise they’re being exploited — especially young people who may be lured in with promises of money, status, or a sense of belonging

Current National Picture (2024–2026)

According to the NPCC and National County Lines Coordination Centre (NCLCC):