Rising Exploitation of Girls in County Lines Drug Gangs

Recent data indicates a troubling rise in the number of girls identified as victims of county lines exploitation in the UK. According to Catch22, a charity that supports victims of this criminal activity, girls and young women constituted 22% of its caseload in 2025, a significant increase from 15% in 2024. The county lines model involves gangs transporting drugs from urban centers to rural areas, often utilizing dedicated phone lines. These gangs frequently exploit vulnerable young people, compelling them to transport drugs and money across the country.

The GuardianThe Telegraph - UK

Marike van Harskamp, head of policy at Catch22, emphasized the need for a “gendered understanding” of the issue, noting that services often overlook girls as victims of criminal exploitation. While approximately half of the boys referred to the county lines service received support from the National Referral Mechanism, only about one in six girls did. Van Harskamp explained that girls often become involved through a “boyfriend model,” where they are groomed into believing they are in a relationship, only to be coerced into criminal activities.

The Guardian

The UK government has reported a significant crackdown on county lines operations, with 2,740 lines closed, 1,657 gang leaders charged, and 961 knives seized in 2025. The government plans to invest over £34 million in its county lines program this year. Det Supt Dan Mitchell, head of the national county lines coordination centre, stated that tackling this issue remains a top priority for police forces, adapting their strategies as gang methods evolve.

The Telegraph - UK

County lines gangs are increasingly targeting teenage girls, utilizing social media platforms like Snapchat to recruit them. These girls are often perceived as less likely to be stopped or suspected of criminal activity. The tactics employed by these gangs resemble those used by grooming gangs, with older members offering gifts and attention to lure young girls into their operations. Children as young as 11 are being drawn into this cycle, exacerbating the issue of exploitation.

The Telegraph - UK

The exploitation of girls in county lines has significant long-term implications, particularly concerning mental health. Van Harskamp highlighted the relationship between poor mental health and increased vulnerability to exploitation, emphasizing the need for specialized mental health aftercare for victims. The trauma associated with such exploitation can lead to lasting mental health issues, further entrenching victims in cycles of abuse and criminality.

The Guardian

The government and law enforcement agencies have acknowledged the rising trend of female involvement in county lines exploitation. Det Supt Dan Mitchell reiterated the commitment to disrupting high-harm county lines and protecting vulnerable individuals. Catch22 continues to advocate for a more nuanced understanding of the issue, urging for better identification and support for female victims.

The Guardian

• “Marike van Harskamp, the head of policy at Catch22, said: “Part of the problem is that there is a very gendered understanding of criminal exploitation and county lines, that it only concerns boys.” — Marike van Harskamp, Head of Policy, Catch22

The Guardian

• “As county lines gangs’ methods evolve, our policing approach does too,” — Det Supt Dan Mitchell, Head of National County Lines Coordination Centre

The Guardian

This growing crisis underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and a comprehensive approach to address the complexities of county lines exploitation, particularly as it affects young girls.

The Guardian