Drugs and firearm seized in Nottinghamshire County Lines crackdown
Intensification week targets gangs exploiting vulnerable people
Last updated 28th Mar 2026
Nottinghamshire Police carried out a series of raids and enforcement actions during a national County Lines Intensification Week earlier in March, leading to multiple arrests and the seizure of drugs and a firearm.
County Lines refers to gangs supplying drugs across regions using designated mobile phone lines, often coercing vulnerable individuals into criminal activities. The week of action aimed to disrupt these networks and safeguard exploited people.
Seizures and arrests
During a raid in Hucknall at 10.25pm on 4th March, officers recovered a carrier bag containing a firearm and ammunition from a flat roof, after items were thrown from a window.
Tiron Desuza, 26, was charged with possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition, and possession of a firearm when prohibited for life. He was remanded in custody following his appearance at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on 6th March and faces his next hearing at Nottingham Crown Court on 2nd April 2026.
In a separate incident around 3pm on 5th March in Brierley Forest Park, Sutton-in-Ashfield, officers seized wraps of cocaine and heroin, along with a knuckleduster, after a motorcyclist attempted to flee.
Corben Pearson, 18, was charged with possession with intent to supply heroin and cocaine, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, handling stolen goods, and driving a motor vehicle without a licence or insurance. He too was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on 2nd April 2026.
Collaborative efforts
Police from the County Lines team joined with neighbourhood teams and the Dog Section for operations at Nottingham railway station, distributing leaflets and posters on recognizing signs of County Lines and cuckooing activities.
Detective Sergeant Toni Smithurst of Nottinghamshire Police stressed the importance of targeting and disrupting County Lines networks that exploit vulnerable people, especially children, to transport and supply Class A drugs.
“The arrests, charges and seizures made are really positive developments, and it is testament to the hard work, dedication and teamwork shown by officers in the County Lines team and others across the force,” DS Smithurst said.
Residents with information regarding drug-related activities are encouraged to contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101, call Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111, or dial 999 in emergencies.
For guidance on identifying County Lines activities, visit Nottinghamshire Police's advice page: https://www.nottinghamshire.police.uk/advice/county-lines