Posted on the 19th October 2026 in PHTM News

BOLSOVER CABBIES ENLISTED IN FIGHT AGAINST COUNTY LINES DRUG GANGS

Taxi and private hire drivers in Bolsover are being trained to spot and report "County Lines" drug gangs, thanks to a new initiative by Bolsover District Council’s Licensing and Enforcement team.

Because drivers spend long hours on the road, particularly late at night, they are uniquely positioned to notice unusual behaviour and criminal exploitation in local communities.

County Lines is a violent form of drug distribution that often exploits children and vulnerable adults to move drugs, cash and weapons.

Drivers are being taught to look out for signs like "cuckooing" - where criminals take over a vulnerable person’s home - as well as passengers making frequent short trips, carrying multiple phones, or appearing frightened and controlled.

Other warning signs include requests to avoid police, large cash payments, and being asked to deliver packages rather than transport passengers.

Councillor Clive Moesby, the council’s Portfolio Holder for Resources, emphasised that drivers can make a real difference.

He stated: “Drivers spend long hours on the road, often late at night, and may see things others don’t. This puts them in a unique position to notice signs of exploitation and criminal activity.”

He also warned that turning a blind eye puts people at risk, adding: “Drivers must put their own safety first, but by staying alert and reporting concerns via official safeguarding routes, taxi and private hire drivers play a crucial role in stopping exploitation and serious harm in our communities.”


Read another story