In 2025, a significant crackdown on criminal activities led to the closure of over 2,700 drug lines and the seizure of close to 1,000 knives, marking a record year for gang-related operations.
According to the Home Office, a total of 2,740 county lines were dismantled between January and December last year. This resulted in the charging of 1,657 gang leaders and the confiscation of 961 blades. County lines networks, typically city-based gangs, distribute drugs like cocaine and heroin to customers in various counties and smaller towns using phone numbers.
These criminal groups often resort to violence and exploit children in their operations. The enforcement actions in 2025 represent the highest figures recorded since 2019, resulting in a 25% decrease in hospital admissions for stabbings in key areas, effectively preventing over 800 stabbings annually.
Policing minister Sarah Jones affirmed the government’s commitment to intensifying efforts against these criminal elements, emphasizing the goal of halving knife crime within a decade to safeguard lives and communities. The government is set to unveil its strategy to reduce knife crime next week, with a confirmed investment of £34 million allocated for the county lines program this year. This funding will support police operations such as house raids and drug seizures, with over £28 million designated for policing activities targeting gangs exploiting children and engaging in violent activities.
Detective Superintendent Dan Mitchell, Head of the National County Lines Coordination Centre (NCLCC), highlighted the ongoing priority of tackling county lines, stating that more lines are being shut down, more offenders charged, and more vulnerable individuals protected than ever before. As county lines gangs evolve their methods, law enforcement strategies led by the NCLCC are also adapting to effectively combat high-harm situations and disrupt criminal activities.
Kathy Betteridge, Director of Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery at The Salvation Army, commended the government’s actions to combat county lines and the associated violence and harm to lives. She emphasized the importance of prevention, sustained investment, and the positive outcomes achieved in addressing the exploitation and violence perpetuated by criminal gangs.
The Salvation Army continues its efforts to support survivors and communities impacted by county lines exploitation, witnessing firsthand the devastating effects on young and vulnerable individuals coerced into criminal activities by these gangs.