Police warning to ‘county lines’ dealers after Bridgnorth drugs bust

Tatenda Masawi, of Bilboe Road in Bilston, West Midlands, was jailed for three and a half years at Shrewsbury Crown Court for possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply and for a firearms offence.

The 25-year-old was also banned from driving which will come into force upon his release from prison.

Masawi was arrested in Listley Street, Bridgnorth on June 23, last year.

He was driving car without a valid driving licence or insurance.

Police found a can of CS gas within the car and Masawi was also found to be in possession of heroin and cocaine.

Using telephone evidence police demonstrated that Masawi had come to Bridgnorth from the West Midlands to distribute Class A drugs as part of what is known as a 'county lines’ drug trafficking operation.

The operation involves drugs being trafficked from large cities in smaller towns and often involves dealers exploiting vulnerable people and dealing drugs from their property.

Detective Sergeant Andrew Chatting said they are determined to stamp the practice out.

He said: “County lines drug dealers often target the most vulnerable members of our community; we are committed to protecting these people and bringing those responsible to justice.”

Det Sgt Chatting also urged anyone with information about other traffickers to contact police.

He said: “We continue to receive the support of the communities in those areas, especially in respect of information provided by local residents leading to the arrest and conviction of people determined to continue to sell drugs.

“I would urge anyone with concerns about the supply of drugs to report it to police.

“All information, no matter how small, helps us to get a better picture of issues in the area.”

Anyone with information can call 101.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.