Taxi drivers have been trained by police on how to spot county line drug dealers as a series of arrests and drug seizures were made across Norfolk.

Norfolk Constabulary has been working with taxi companies on how to report suspicious behaviour to avoid cabs being used in county line drug deals.

News of the link-up came as police revealed details on a major operation across the county.

Twelve people were arrested and two county line phone lines were shut down in Norfolk during a national intensification week between March 4 and 10.

Arrests and drugs seizures were made in Norwich, Thetford, King’s Lynn and Great Yarmouth, offences included possession with intent to supply and being concerned in the supply of Class A and B drugs.

Officers seized drugs, weapons, cash and drug dealing paraphernalia, including crack cocaine, heroin, cannabis, magic mushrooms and MDMA, as well as knives, a hammer and a knuckle duster.

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The week of activity was coordinated by the National County Lines Coordination Centre set up by the National Crime Agency and NPCC.

Other work during the week included working with taxi companies to ensure they know what to look for and how to report suspicious behaviour. Taxis are sometimes used by dealers to move around the county.

Over the week, officers also visited vulnerable residents and held engagement events with young people and businesses.

Inspector Jo Minnis, county lines lead for Norfolk Constabulary, said: “It is important to note this work never stops.

“We will look to disrupt serious and organised crime, drug dealing and other associated criminality every day of the year, and wherever possible, bring those responsible to justice.

“We have visited a number of homes whose occupants have been or may be victims of cuckooing, which is where vulnerable adults’ homes are used as a base for criminal activity; we continue to support those affected by drugs and addiction; and we work with partners to divert young people away from crime, and support those who are being exploited by the dealers and gang leaders.”

Anyone with information about drug dealing is encouraged to contact Norfolk Constabulary.