21 arrests as £650k of drugs seized by South Yorkshire Police

Arrests made between October 3 and 9 included for the supply and possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

Raids were carried out across the region and 13 weapons — including knives and knuckle dusters — were recovered.

Officers also visited ten properties that have been identified as being cuckooed and the residents of the properties have been safeguarded.

Det Insp Ben Wood, who led the week of action, said: “This type of criminality, which targets young and vulnerable members of our communities, can have a devastating impact on those involved. 

“Weeks of action like this one give us the opportunity not only to target offenders through enforcement activity, but also to raise awareness about the dangers of county lines exploitation.”

Gangs operate by exploiting vulnerable adults and children to move, harbour and deal drugs on their behalf. 

The gangs sometimes take over vulnerable adults’ homes — using the properties as bases from which to deal, which is known as cuckooing.

Some officers also visited schools to talk about the risks of county lines operations, encouraging children to speak up if worried about exploitation.

DI Wood said: “It’s important to know that any child can be targeted by gangs.

“They operate by fulfilling a need for the victim, whether it be through offering money, friendship or gifts.

“We all have a role to play in spotting the signs a child or vulnerable adult may be being exploited. 

“If you have concerns about a young person that may be being exploited, please report it to us. We will listen.”

Visit www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/what-we-do/crime-threats/drug-trafficking/county-lines for more information.