A WEEK of action against 'county lines' drug dealing has resulted in 34 arrests in Dorset.

According to Dorset Police, these include two men from London, aged 20 and 21, who were arrested in Bridport on suspicion of possessing a class A drug with intent to supply.

The men were arrested following a safe and well check, when officers seized a package of suspected class A drugs as well as more than £450 in cash.

According to the force, drug dealers often use a method known as cuckooing, where they target vulnerable people and move into their home to deal drugs.

It is also said that gangs exploit children to courier drugs and money.

Other action by police during the week included safe and well checks at addresses known to be linked to cuckooing, text messages sent to cause disruption on known county lines mobile numbers, work with British Transport Police to carry out checks of people suspected of carrying knives at Weymouth train station and supporting staff dealing with referrals involving vulnerable people.

A total of 11 positive roadside drug wipes were carried out by the traffic unit. Among them was a woman who tested positive and was arrested on two occasions – once in Weymouth and once in Bournemouth.

A series of arrests were also made in Poole and Bournemouth. All those arrested have been released under investigation.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Dilworth, of Dorset Police, said: “We are committed to disrupting the activity of those suspect of being involved in county lines drug networks and protecting the vulnerable people who are potentially being exploited by them.

“Throughout the week of intensification, as well as taking action against suspected criminals, we have also been supporting people who are at risk of being cuckooed and spreading awareness of the signs to look for that youngsters are being sucked into the drug supply chain."

If you have any information about suspected drug related activity or if you have concerns about vulnerable people who are potentially being exploited, contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

More information on county lines and how to spot the relevant signs can be found on www.dorset.police.uk/county-lines.

CONTACT ME:

t: 01305 830984

e: ellie.maslin@dorsetecho.co.uk

twitter: @DorsetEchoEllie