Blackpool and British Transport Police unite against drug supply
Joint action targets County Lines gangs and arrests made
Blackpool's Neighbourhood Policing Team and British Transport Police collaborated last week to tackle drug supply in the town through a joint day of action.
High visibility and plain clothed patrols were conducted across the town centre and around Blackpool North train station, focusing on identifying and disrupting County Lines drug gangs.
The operation also aimed to safeguard vulnerable individuals at risk of exploitation.
A total of six people were arrested, with charges brought against some of them.
A man in his 20s from Leeds was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs and has been released on police bail while investigations continue.
Darren Shaw, 44, from Cardinal Court, Leeds, faces charges of possession with intent to supply Class A Crack Cocaine and is scheduled to appear before Preston Crown Court on 3rd July.
Lennon Cooper, 20, from Windmill Road, Leeds, is charged with possession with intent to supply Class A Heroin and Crack Cocaine. He will appear before Preston Crown Court on 19th June.
A Blackpool man in his 50s was arrested on suspicion of permitting the use of a premises for drug supply but later released with no further action.
Two young men, aged 17 and 18, from Blackpool and Leeds respectively, were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and have been released on police bail with conditions.
Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Jon Campbell-Smith encourages the public to continue reporting concerns about County Lines and drug supply.
Detective Inspector Brian Buddo, from British Transport Police, added: “British Transport Police’s County Lines Task Force is working closely with Blackpool Neighbourhood Policing Team to disrupt County Lines, support policing within the town and keep the travelling public safe.
“This ongoing partnership targets those who exploit vulnerable people and seeks to reassure communities that robust action is being taken.”
Anyone with suspicions should contact police on 101 or, if witnessing a crime in progress or concerned about danger, call 999.