In what has been deemed a “record-breaking year” for crackdowns on criminal activities, over 2,700 drug operations were dismantled, and close to 1,000 knives were confiscated in 2025.
The Home Office recently disclosed that a total of 2,740 county lines operations were terminated from January to December last year, resulting in the arrest of 1,657 gang leaders and the seizure of 961 blades. County lines networks, known for trafficking drugs like cocaine and heroin from urban areas to smaller towns and counties, have been a primary target.
Reports indicate that these criminal organizations often resort to violence and exploit minors. The figures for 2025 represent the highest enforcement levels since records began in 2019. The crackdown on county lines has notably led to a 25% decrease in hospital admissions due to stab wounds in critical regions, preventing over 800 stabbings annually.
Policing minister Sarah Jones stated, “We are actively shutting down criminal operations, apprehending gang leaders, and removing dangerous weapons from our streets at unprecedented rates. Our commitment to pursuing these abhorrent criminals remains unwavering, aiming to reduce knife crime by half within the next ten years, thereby safeguarding lives and communities.”
As part of the government’s strategy to halve knife crime by 2035, a £34 million investment has been allocated for the county lines program this year. This funding will support law enforcement efforts such as targeted raids and drug seizure operations. A significant portion, exceeding £28 million, has been earmarked for policing activities to combat gangs exploiting children and perpetrating violent acts.
Detective Superintendent Dan Mitchell, the Head of the National County Lines Coordination Centre (NCLCC), emphasized the ongoing priority of combating county lines operations. With an evolving policing strategy, focusing on high-risk scenarios and violent drug-related activities, the aim is to prevent harm, protect vulnerable individuals, and disrupt criminal endeavors.
Kathy Betteridge, Director of Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery at The Salvation Army, commended the government’s initiatives in addressing county lines issues and the associated harm and violence. She highlighted the importance of prevention efforts, sustained investments, and the tangible outcomes being achieved.
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