A week long crack down on County Lines drug crime led to 15 arrests in Cumbria - nine of which were in Barrow.

Between September 14 and 20, officers stepped up its response and enhanced already active investigations into County Lines drug dealing in the county.

According to the force, during the week a total of 15 people were arrested.

The arrests included five in Barrow in one day, with people being arrested for drug possession, possessing an offensive weapon and being concerned in the supply of drugs.

Four other arrests were made in Barrow on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs.

Two others were arrested on the M6 on suspicion of money laundring and two in Carlisle on suspicion of drug possession.

Detective Inspector Hayley Wilkinson said the force is doing all it can to stop County Lines drug dealers within Cumbria communities.

She said: "We’re committed to dismantling these criminal networks and to protecting the young and vulnerable people who are exploited by gangs and are subject to violence, fear and intimidation.

“County lines is exploitative drug supply and is devastating to local communities, well beyond those who are directly involved in the local drugs scene.

“We will do all we can to stop county lines drugs criminals targeting our communities as they aim to line their pockets at other people’s misery.

“Working closely with our external partners and partners in the police and regional organised crime units is vital in our fight against drug trafficking and county lines."

During the week of increased action search warrants were carried out at properties, and 35 stop searches were made in Barrow, as part of a joint operation with Merseyside Police.

Officers took safeguarding action over a number of vulnerable people, and neighbourhood police teams carried out leaflet drops to raise awareness at GP surgeries, hotels and other agencies.