Merseyside Police County Lines Month of Action runs from Monday 6th January – Monday 27th January 2025.
The 2018 Home Office Serious Crime Strategy states the NPCC definition of a County Line as a term used to describe gangs and organised criminal networks involved in exporting illegal drugs into one or more importing areas [within the UK], using dedicated mobile phone lines or other form of “deal line”. They are likely to exploit children and vulnerable adults to move [and store] the drugs and money and they will often use coercion, intimidation, violence (including sexual violence) and weapons.
One of the ways in which those wishing to exploit young people will make contact is through Social Media and the linked document contains some guidance for parents and carers with regard to possible indicators of exploitation and how best to safeguard and protect your child.
Further information regarding County Lines – including what to do if you or someone or know may be affected by this issue – can be found here:
