THOUSANDS of pounds in cash was seized by police during a targeted campaign against county line drug dealers.

Thames Valley Police (TVP) made more than 100 arrests and obtained £133,000 as part of the week-long operation.

County lines is the name given to drug dealing where organised criminal groups use phone lines to move and supply drugs from cities into smaller towns and rural areas.

It can often see young people exploited, particularly those with mental health or addiction problems.

Detective chief superintendent Richard List said: “This has been a hugely successful week for TVP working with the National Crime Agency to tackle county lines drug dealing.

“I see the fact that we have safeguarded a number of adults and children from being exploited through violence, fear and intimidation by drug dealers this week as a real success.

“However, this intensification week is just a continuation of the work TVP officers and our partners have been carrying out over the last few years.

“We will continue to act every single day to stop those who seek to damage our communities through this extremely harmful criminal activity."

The week-long activity saw officers carrying out warrants, making arrests and other activity to disrupt drug dealers.

This led to 106 arrests, 27 warrants being executed and officers took over 2,800 wraps of cocaine, heroin and cannabis off the streets.

Additionally officers seized more than £133,000 in cash and took a number of weapons, including machetes and flick knives, out of the hands criminals.

As a result of campaign, 43 children and 69 vulnerable adults were safeguarded, while 41 school visits were made to help educate schoolchildren.

Det ch supt List added: “It is important for us all to be familiar with the signs that someone might be the victim of drugs exploitation as only with the public’s help can we stop this.

“If you think someone shows sign of mistreatment, or a child seems to travelling long distances or is unfamiliar with the area they are in, then you can report your suspicions to TVP on 101 or via our website.

“Engagement with the public is vital as well and we will continue to work together with our communities and partners so that we can protect vulnerable people, bring offenders to justice and make the Thames Valley a safer place.”