Staffordshire Police have arrested 10 individuals and seized over £30,000 in drugs, cash, and weapons following a series of raids in Stone, aimed at tackling suspected drug supply and child criminal exploitation (CCE).
On Thursday, 3rd October, officers conducted coordinated raids at nine addresses in the town, as part of an investigation into adults believed to be exploiting children through organised crime and county lines drug dealing.
The operation, led by the force’s child exploitation team, resulted in the seizure of suspected heroin, MDMA, cocaine, and cannabis. Additionally, officers confiscated over £10,000 in cash and a range of weapons, including seven samurai swords, as well as items linked to drug supply activities.
A total of 10 individuals have been arrested on suspicion of being involved in the supply of Class A and Class B drugs, human trafficking, and forced servitude—both classified as modern slavery offences. Those arrested include:
• A 49-year-old man
• A 36-year-old man
• A 34-year-old man
• A 24-year-old man
• A 22-year-old man
• Two 20-year-old men
• A 56-year-old woman
• Two 17-year-old girls
All suspects are local to the Stone area and are currently in police custody. One of the individuals was tracked down by officers from the force’s newly-formed Road Crime Team (RCT).
Detective Chief Inspector Amy Martin, Staffordshire Police’s lead on child exploitation, said: “We executed simultaneous warrants today, targeting individuals who we believe prey on children for their own financial gain. Some victims have reportedly been subjected to appalling threats and violence. Thankfully, they are now being safeguarded by our officers and partner agencies."
She added: “The message is clear – we are committed to making Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent a hostile environment for those who exploit children and young people. Residents in Stone will see an increased police presence in the coming days as we continue our work.”
This recent activity is part of the force’s broader commitment to tackling serious and organised crime across the region. Last May, Staffordshire Police launched Operation Target, a proactive campaign to disrupt and pursue criminals involved in county lines drug supply, illegal firearms, knife crime, human trafficking, and sexual exploitation.
County lines is a form of criminal exploitation where gangs use vulnerable individuals, often children, to distribute drugs. This illegal operation not only destroys lives but also significantly impacts communities.
Retailers, parents, and members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, as Staffordshire Police continue their efforts to dismantle these criminal networks and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
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