Drugs, weapons and cash seized following week-long Walsall County Lines crackdown
Police in Walsall have made a series of arrests and seized drugs, weapons and cash following a week-long crackdown on 'county lines' activity.
The operation, led by West Midlands Police's County Lines Taskforce alongside local officers and partner agencies, formed part of a national intensification week targeting criminal gangs who exploit children and vulnerable adults to distribute drugs.
During the initiative, officers stopped and searched 38 people across Walsall, leading to 19 arrests for offences including possession with intent to supply drugs, cannabis cultivation, and possession of firearms and bladed weapons. Three warrants were also executed, with officers recovering around £15,000 in cash, along with ammunition, Class A drugs and cannabis plants.
At the start of the week, community group FazAmnesty brought its mobile weapon surrender van to Walsall town centre. The visit, organised by local policing teams, resulted in a range of weapons being handed in, including 10 knives, a samurai sword, an axe, a machete, a dagger and a crossbow.
Officers also carried out visits to suspected “cuckooed” properties - homes taken over by criminals to use as bases for drug dealing - in a bid to safeguard vulnerable residents and connect them with support services.
Residents are being urged to remain vigilant for warning signs of exploitation, such as frequent visitors to a property at unusual hours, increased antisocial behaviour, or signs of neglect.
High-visibility patrols were conducted in areas including Orchid Close, Cemetery Road, Cannon Street, Rosehill Gardens, the Poet’s Estate and Pool Hayes, with officers focusing on suspected drug activity and suspicious vehicles.
As part of prevention efforts, officers and partners visited 21 schools and youth groups to deliver workshops on the dangers of gang involvement, county lines activity and knife crime. One-to-one sessions were also held with pupils, while parents were given advice on spotting signs of exploitation and online grooming.
Engagement work extended to local colleges, children’s homes and public areas such as Aldridge village centre and nearby bus stops, where officers spoke with young people about safety and antisocial behaviour.
Police are urging anyone with concerns about drug dealing or exploitation to come forward. Support is also available for those worried about a young person, with guidance offered through the Children’s Society’s #LookCloser campaign.
