A specialist police taskforce tackling drug dealing across West Yorkshire has shut down 180 county lines operations and made 250 arrests in its first year.
The team was established in October 2025 to tackle organised drug dealing and protect vulnerable people from exploitation across the region, including Ilkley and the wider Bradford district.
Over the past 12 months, officers have seized 128kg of drugs and £136,663 in cash.
Police have also recovered more than 70 knives and charged 180 people with offences.
A further 98 suspected county lines operators have been charged and are awaiting court proceedings.
The taskforce has also made 159 referrals to safeguarding services and charities to help protect people at risk of exploitation.
County lines involves criminal gangs using dedicated phone lines to organise the supply of drugs, often across different towns and areas.
These operations can involve the exploitation of children and vulnerable adults, who may be pressured or threatened into transporting or selling drugs.
Detective Inspector Helen Chapman, who leads the taskforce, said:
“Since forming a year ago, the dedicated team has made huge steps in our commitment to tackling county lines criminality across West Yorkshire.
“County lines gangs often exploit children and vulnerable adults, using manipulation, coercion, and violence to facilitate drug supply and generate profit.
“By combining enforcement activity with safeguarding and partnership interventions, the team has a coordinated response to protect vulnerable people, disrupt organised crime groups and strengthen community safety.
“While there is more work to do, the achievements of the past year demonstrate the work we are doing to protect our communities from exploitation and serious organised crime.”
West Yorkshire Police is encouraging residents to report suspected drug dealing or concerns about people who may be at risk of exploitation.
Reports can be made through the force's website at www.westyorkshire.police.uk, including its dedicated online form for reporting drug use and dealing.
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