Dozen county lines gangs shattered in targeted Gravesend operation

A dozen county lines gangs have been shattered by a week-long operation in Gravesham.

Dawn raids across the district have seen 32 people arrested, significant quantities of various drugs and cash seized and an air rifle taken off the streets of north Kent.

The culmination of months of planning, 27 properties were entered across Gravesend and the surrounding area between Monday 2 and Friday 6 November 2026.

Officers seized almost £40,000 cash, and significant quantities of cocaine, cannabis and illicit tobacco. An air rifle and blank-firing rounds were also recovered.

Disrupting 12 county lines operations, 34 charges were brought in total against those arrested and seven safeguarding interventions were made to protect children and vulnerable adults.

Among the action taken in last week’s operation:

• A warrant carried out on Thursday 5 November uncovered quantities of cocaine, cannabis and cash. Ryelee Yardley, 24, of Kendall Gardens, Gravesend was later arrested and charged with possession with intent to supply cocaine and possession of cannabis. He has pleaded not guilty and was remanded in custody until his next hearing at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday 4 December.
• Officers arrested a man after entering a property on Monday 2 November, where they seized a quantity of cash, cannabis and found evidence of suspected class A dealing. Amarildo Hebeja, 23, of Wrotham Road, Gravesend was later charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession with intent to supply cannabis, and possession of criminal property. He pleaded guilty to the cocaine supply charge but denied the other two offences. He was remanded in custody until his next hearing at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday 30 November.

County lines comprises larger criminal organisations bringing drugs into counties including Kent, often exploiting young or vulnerable people as dealers or buyers. Further criminal activity, such as violent crime or weapon possession is often associated with county lines offending.

Chief Inspector Sarah Rivett said:

‘This excellent operation has seen several teams collaborating to achieve these fantastic results, which will be pivotal in our ongoing effort to combat county lines. ‘Drug dealing is not a victimless crime, as it can lead to exploitation or serious harm and is often linked to other forms of criminality. ‘This targeted week of warrants will therefore make Gravesend a safer and more pleasant place to live and work in.’