Police Carry Out Drug Searches With Dog Units To Safeguard Young People

Neighbourhood officers from Devon & Cornwall Police carried out targeted drug searches last month alongside specialist police dogs and their handlers.

The work involved officers teaming up with the Camborne and Bodmin Dog Support Unit to search for illegal drugs, with a focus on protecting vulnerable young people from harm linked to drug use and exploitation.

What Police Found

During the operations, a number of drugs were located. Police confirmed that young people were safeguarded and intelligence was gathered to help support future policing activity in the area.

Officers said the searches formed part of ongoing efforts to prevent exploitation, particularly where recreational drug use can lead to involvement in county lines activity, which police describe as having devastating consequences for those involved.

Why County Lines Is a Serious Concern

Police are urging the public to familiarise themselves with the signs of county lines drug dealing. According to the National Police Chiefs’ Council, county lines refers to organised criminal networks exporting illegal drugs across the UK, often exploiting children and vulnerable adults to move or store drugs and money. These networks may use intimidation, violence and coercion.

Signs To Look Out For

Police shared a number of warning signs that could indicate county lines activity:

• Increased visitors or vehicles at a property

• New or frequently changing residents

• Changes in behaviour such as secrecy, aggression or withdrawal

• Drug paraphernalia or substance misuse

• Young people with unexplained new possessions

• Missing episodes involving young people

• Truancy or disengagement from school

• Unexplained injuries

• Increased anti-social behaviour

What To Do If You’re Worried

Anyone with concerns is encouraged to trust their instincts and report them. You can contact police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If something involves the rail network, concerns can be reported to British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 999 in an emergency.

More information on county lines and drug trafficking is available from the National Crime Agency here.

Support For Young People

Young people worried about their own involvement or a friend’s involvement are encouraged to speak to a trusted adult. Support is also available from Childline on 0800 1111.

Additional help can be accessed through organisations such as Catch22 and St Giles, both of which work with young people to help them exit situations linked to county lines.

Police say safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and reporting concerns could help prevent serious harm.