Merseyside Police dismantles drug lines and arrest 237 people during County Lines operation
Project Medusa leads multi-agency crackdown on drug trafficking and exploitation
Last updated 13th Mar 2026
Merseyside Police has successfully arrested 237 individuals and dismantled 17 drug networks during the County Lines Intensification Week, held from 2nd to 8th March 2026.
County Lines refers to organized crime exploiting children and vulnerable adults to transport drugs and weapons through mobile phone networks.
Project Medusa, Merseyside's dedicated team tackling County Lines, conducted the operation alongside the County Lines Taskforce, Operation Toxic, and Operation Stonehaven.
Officers seized over 18kg of heroin, crack cocaine, cannabis, nitrous oxide, and ketamine, along with £42,000 in cash and 35 weapons, including daggers, zombie knives, and imitation firearms.
Multi-agency Collaboration
Merseyside’s County Lines Taskforce worked closely with neighboring police forces, such as Lancashire, North Wales, West Mercia Police, and British Transport Police, supported by councils and housing associations to dismantle organized crime groups.
A key focus was on protecting vulnerable individuals, with officers visiting 36 addresses suspected of being used for cuckooing, safeguarding 50 individuals from criminal gangs.
Detective Chief Inspector Gary Stratton emphasized the ongoing commitment to tackling County Lines, highlighting the joint efforts of various police forces and organizations.
Prevention and Diversion Activities
Operation Stonehaven delivered various diversionary activities in partnership with community organizations like Anfield Boxing Club, Everton in the Community, LFC Foundation, and others, aiming to prevent exploitation.
Project Medusa also played a significant role in Operation Vanguard on 4th March, coordinating efforts of 300 officers in Anfield to execute warrants, conduct roadside checks, and more.
The week forms part of the national County Lines strategy, coordinated by the NPCC-led National County Lines Coordination Centre (NCLCC), targeting drug supply, modern slavery, and weapons offenses.
The Eyes Open campaign continues to raise awareness on child criminal exploitation, urging young people, parents, and carers to #EyesOpen for signs of exploitation and report concerns.
For more information on spotting signs of exploitation, visit the Eyes Open campaign website. Concerns can be reported to police via 999, 101, or through social media on X @MerPolCC. Crimestoppers offers anonymous advice through its Fearless service.