[UK] 2,000 drug users sent text messages by police after dealers’ phones seized

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source: https://www.mylondon.news/news/zone-1-news/2000-drug-users-sent-text-17142313

2,000 drug users sent text messages by police after dealers’ phones seized

'You are funding very serious offences such as modern slavery, violent crime and even terrorism'

24 OCT 2019

Cocaine users got a text from police telling them their dealer has been jailed

Thousands of drug users who contacted cocaine dealers via phone have been sent text messages by City of London police.

The users, the majority working in London's financial district, had ordered cocaine from a gang which was "disrupted" in a police operation earlier in 2019.

A total of 12 people were jailed after being found to have worked as "couriers" or "controllers" in the gang, delivering drugs to workers in Central London.

The eight-month long investigation culminated in the seizure of 1.2 kilos of cocaine, which had a street value of around £144,000, as well as £20,000 in cash.

Officers also seized two phones which "were found to be extremely active ‘drug line’ phones" and belonged to the two controllers.

The 12 gang members were jailed for more than 30 years in various prosecutions between February and July.

City of London Police have now analysed the data from the phones and sent messages to each number which had contacted the drug dealers on three or more occasions.

The text message explained the police had arrested the dealers connected to this phone and were now reaching out to those that had used their services, to try and help them.

The text message included a link where people could get local advice and support for drug and substance abuse.

Detective Constable Lee Johnson, who led the operation for the City of London Police, said: "A lot of individuals delivering drugs across the capital are young and vulnerable people who are being exploited.

"Many people don’t realise it, but by buying drugs, even small amounts recreationally, you are funding other very serious offences such as modern slavery, violent crime and even terrorism.

"Not only are the City of London Police committed to protecting those being exploited through drug dealing, we are committed to helping those who buy drugs regularly get the support they need to stop.

"Taking drugs can affect your mental health, personal relationships with friends and family, as well as your work-life and career prospects.

"We work closely with our partners at the City of London Corporation who commission WDP Square Mile Health to deliver expert, non-judgemental, confidential advice and support to City workers, and residents of the Square Mile, with drug and alcohol issues."