Operation targets County Lines drug activity across Preston

A joint multi-agency operation has led to multiple arrests, vehicle seizures and proactive activity aimed at disrupting County Lines drug dealing in Preston.

The operation, which took place on Tuesday 8th September 2026, involved officers from across Lancashire Constabulary including Task Forces, Targeted Crime, Neighbourhood Policing Teams, Road Crime Teams and colleagues from British Transport Police supported by other partner agencies, and saw officers carrying out a range of enforcement activity across the city, targeting those involved in the supply of illegal drugs and associated criminality.

As part of the operation, over 25 plain-clothed officers patrolled the streets of Preston gathering evidence of drug dealing, detaining individuals involved.

Officers from the Road Crime Team conducted a number of vehicles stop searches. One vehicle was abandoned in an alleyway after its occupants attempted to flee on foot. Following a short chase, a man and a woman were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of around £900 in cash, a quantity of suspected drugs and three mobile phones, all of which were seized as part of the investigation.

In total, six other people were arrested for a variety of offences including affray, burglary and assault occasioning actual bodily harm (ABH).

Additionally, a number of visits were carried out to individuals identified at risk of exploitation associated with county lines. Risk assessments were conducted and safeguarding measures were implemented.

Disruption was carried out at Preston Train Station, where a knife arch was deployed and specialist drug detection dogs were used to identify anyone carrying illegal substances. Officers at the train station located and safeguarded two people who had been reported missing from home, while three community resolutions were issued for drug possession offences.

Ten vehicles were seized during the course of the day as officers carried out targeted road policing activity.

Preston Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Adam Pearson said: "County Lines drug dealing brings exploitation, violence and harm into our communities, and tackling those involved remains a priority for us."

"This multi-agency operation demonstrates the value of partnership working, bringing together local and regional policing resources to disrupt criminal activity, protect vulnerable people and make Preston a safer place to live, work and visit."

Operation Warrior is Lancashire Police’s response to tackling serious and organised crime in Lancashire, supported by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw.

It aims to target the individuals and gangs involved in crime, as well as associated issues such as violence and intimidation, large scale drug supply, exploitation, and fraud, all of which can cause serious harm to local communities.

Anyone with information about suspected drug dealing in their community is encouraged to report it to Lancashire Police via 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.