Kent Police arrested 32 people, entered 27 properties and made seven safeguarding interventions during a week-long operation across Gravesend and the surrounding area in November 2026.
Twelve county lines drug networks were disrupted during a targeted Kent Police operation in Gravesham between Monday 2 and Friday 6 November 2026. Officers entered 27 properties, made 32 arrests and brought 34 charges. Nearly £40,000 in cash was seized alongside cocaine, cannabis and illicit tobacco — plus an air rifle and blank-firing rounds.
Seven safeguarding interventions were also made to protect children and vulnerable adults. The operation followed months of planning and drew in several specialist teams.
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.”
Two Gravesend men appeared before Maidstone Crown Court following their arrests. Ryelee Yardley, 24, of Kendall Gardens, was charged with possession with intent to supply cocaine and possession of cannabis. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded in custody until 4 December. Amarildo Hebeja, 23, of Wrotham Road, faced charges of being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession with intent to supply cannabis and possession of criminal property. He admitted the cocaine supply charge but denied the other two, and was remanded until 30 November.
County lines, for those unfamiliar with the term, describes the practice whereby larger criminal organisations bring 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, according to Kent Police.
Key information
- Call 999 if a child or anyone else is in immediate danger, violence is threatened or a crime is taking place.
- Non-emergency concerns about county lines or drug dealing can be reported to Kent Police on 101 or via the force’s online reporting service.