Humberside Police disrupt organised crime networks with major results
Specialist teams target serious offenders and dismantle criminal groups
Humberside Police has achieved significant results in its ongoing efforts to combat serious and organised crime, dismantling criminal networks and safeguarding vulnerable individuals across the region.
Throughout 2025, the force’s specialist teams shut down 13 organised crime groups, seized over £295,000 in criminal cash and recovered more than £1.5 million in assets under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Over 540 targeted warrants were executed, resulting in the recovery of over 150kg of class A, B, and C drugs, alongside 50 weapons and firearms linked to organised crime. A total of 550 arrests were made, with courts issuing sentences totalling 189 years in prison and 177 ancillary orders across the year.
Tackling more than drug supply
Humberside Police’s efforts against organised crime extend beyond drug supply, targeting offences such as modern slavery, human trafficking, fraud, cybercrime, child exploitation, and serious acquisitive crimes, like burglary and vehicle theft.
Specialist units within the force include the Drugs Expert Witness and Intelligence Teams, Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Unit, Economic Crime Unit, and Safeguarding and Asset Recovery teams. These teams work collaboratively to investigate criminal activity, disrupt networks, and protect those at risk.
Detective Superintendent Iain Pottage, force lead for Serious and Organised Crime, emphasised the importance of these efforts.
“Criminals involved in gangs and drug dealing will often use violence and intimidation as tools to further their financial gain and control in our communities,” he said.
“They exploit young people and vulnerable adults, often through coercion, debt, and intimidation, and distance themselves from the misery and harmful reality of drug dealing on the streets.”
He added: “Enforcement alone is not enough. We work with partners to support vulnerable people and provide reassurance and wrap-around care to communities affected. Helping people to escape this lifestyle and protecting those at risk is absolutely vital.”
Making communities safer
Humberside Police worked with partner agencies last year to safeguard more than 120 adults and children at risk of exploitation linked to serious and organised crime. The force also issued 177 ancillary orders designed to further protect individuals.
The Clear Hold Build initiative is another vital part of the force’s multi-agency approach, targeting criminal influence in Grimsby, Hull, and Bridlington. This initiative aims to clear areas of gang activity, hold ground to prevent further criminal exploitation, and build resilience within communities alongside local partners.
Encouraging community support
Humberside Police is appealing to members of the public to report any concerns about serious and organised crime in their area. Reports allow the force to gather vital evidence, shape investigations and bring offenders to justice.
Concerns can be reported to local officers, at local stations, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. If a crime is in progress or someone is at immediate risk, always call 999.