MORE than 30 suspects were arrested in Cheshire after police seized heroin, crack cocaine and cannabis destined for areas in north west.

Officers detained 31 people - eight from Warrington - for offences including drugs and possessing offensive weapons.

Knives, a machete, a sword, a crowbar and a baseball bat were among the weapons seized.

Six vulnerable people are now receiving support after six properties were identified as being used to exploit vulnerable people to deal drugs on another dealer’s behalf.

Approximately £2,500 cash was also seized.

This is part of an investigation into 'county lines' which is operated by an organised crime group who use a mobile phone, known as a ‘line’ or a ‘graft’ to extend their criminal activity business into new locations.

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Detective inspector Justin Hancock, said: “Although we regularly take action to disrupt county line activity, officers went that extra mile last week to target organised crime in our communities.

“Vulnerable adults and children are often targeted to deliver and deal drugs on a criminal’s behalf after being criminally exploited, coerced and manipulated.

“Breaking the cycle of those who are coerced into this crime is very difficult and while working with our partners is important we also need support from the public to help disrupt organised crime.

Cheshire police and crime commissioner, David Keane, added: “County lines gang activity can have a devastating impact on young people and those who are most vulnerable in our society.

“It is vitally important that our teachers, parents and young people are aware of county lines, what to do if they feel they’re been exploited by these gangs and more importantly, how to stop getting involved in the first place”.