Warnings issued in Oswestry as part of continued crackdown on county lines

Four youths believed to be involved in county lines have been issued with warnings by police in Oswestry.

The Community Protection warnings were issued after police received reports and complaints from members of the public that the anti-social behaviour of a small group of youths has been causing harassment, alarm and distress.

It's believed the behaviour is drug related with the youths involved possibly linked to county lines.

Shropshire Detective Chief Inspector Mike Nally said: "The behaviour of these youths has been having a really negative impact on the quality of life for the local community in Oswestry, and while it is only a small minority who are involved, their behaviour has caused a significant amount of distress to local residents.

"We have evidence to suggest that the behaviour is drugs related and possibly linked to county lines. The local community in Oswestry shouldn't have to put up with this type of behaviour and we will do all we can to use the range of tactics we have at our disposal to target those we suspect are involved.

"There is no doubt county lines is having a significant impact in some of our towns in the county, as it is in other county towns right across the country.

"Working in partnership is crucial and we work very closely with other agencies, such as the local authority, housing providers and support services, as part of our serious and organised crime joint action group, to utilise the range of powers we all have to target those who are causing our local communities the most harm."