Throughout October 2020, enforcement work by Kent Police also resulted in 26 charges linked to the distribution of heroin and crack cocaine. Specialist units from the County Line and Gang Team continue to clamp down on criminals who target areas including Thanet, Maidstone, Medway and Sheerness.

During this period, disruption work across Kent included the execution of nine search warrants. There were also 24 stop and search checks by both plain clothed and uniformed patrols.

In the courts, prison sentences linked to county lines totalled more than 12 years in October.

Detective Superintendent Mike Worrall said: ‘The supply and misuse of drugs in any area can have a profound and far reaching effect on communities. As well as the misery and distress caused by county lines, residents often also end up being plagued with anti-social behaviour, caused by users and dealers entering and leaving properties on a regular basis.

'The associated fear and anxiety which is caused is simply never acceptable, which is another reason why there will be no let-up in our determination to tackle and dismantle this destructive trade. The vital support we receive from members of the public in helping detect and deter offenders remains vital. By continuing to work together we really are ensuring the message gets through to criminals that operating in Kent simply won’t be tolerated.’

©Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2003 -