Speak up to stop county lines and exploitation

County lines drug dealing and exploitation are affecting communities across the UK, and too often, it’s the most vulnerable people who are targeted.

Children, young people, and adults at risk can be manipulated, threatened, or forced into criminal activity. Behind every deal or delivery is someone being exploited.

Criminal networks use violence, intimidation and control to run their operations. They move drugs, cash and weapons from one area to another, often using young people or vulnerable adults as couriers. Many of those caught up in county lines go missing from home, face serious physical and emotional harm, and find themselves trapped in fear, some in what is known as modern slavery, hidden in our communities.

Our heat map, below, shows the extent of suspected county lines activity across the UK in 2025.

The damage done

The damage doesn’t stop with the individuals involved, it tears through families and neighbourhoods, bringing violence, debt, and fear into our towns and cities. It puts children at risk in schools and on our streets. Every time you speak up, you help reduce harm, protect people from abuse, and send a clear message that our communities will not be controlled by organised crime. Communities lose their sense of safety. Children lose their freedom. Parents and guardians lose peace of mind.

Do you have information, but don't want to speak to the police? You can tell us what you know and remain 100% anonymous - guaranteed. 

Call free any time on 0800 555 111 or fill in our quick, easy & secure online form, right here on our website:

Give information anonymously

Signs to look out for

If you recognise any of these, share what you know 100% anonymously:

You can help stop this. If you know or suspect someone is being exploited, or if you have information about drug dealing or related activity, tell Crimestoppers, 100% anonymously. We don’t trace calls or track IP addresses, and we will never ask for your name. Your call could protect a child, safeguard a vulnerable adult, or stop criminals from exploiting someone else.

Call 0800 555 111 any time, or fill in our quick & easy online form, here on our website:

Give information anonymously

To understand more about county lines, the warning signs, and how you can protect yourself and others, click here.