Officers from the Dedicated Neighbourhood Team arrested two persons from an address in Oakham suspected to be linked with County Lines. 

In a statement released by Leicestershire Police this morning, two people were arrested from an Oakham address, both wanted by the courts for previous offences. 

The Oakham address was occupied by a vulnerable adult, suspected to be the subject of 'cuckooing,' where offenders take over a property through force, deceit or coercion in order to use the address for illegal activity, such as the store, supply or production on drugs. 

The two suspects were arrested, giving the police the opportunity to introduce immediate safeguarding meaures for the occupant, assisting them with getting their locks changes and referring them to multiple agencies for additional support. The police will continue to support this individual. 

The police hope to take robust measures against the offenders, sending a message that similar offences are not welcome in Rutland and will be dealt with accordingly. 

It is essential for local people to be aware of 'cuckooing' to better protect their community and themselves from potentially becoming a victim. 

According to Leicestershire Police, the following groups of individuals are sometimes targeted for cuckooing: 

• Those suffering from drugs and/or alcohol addiction, 
• Those struggling financially, 
• The elderly, 
• People with mental health issues, 
• Individuals with learning difficulties. 

For more information on cuckooing, visit Leicestershire Police's dedicated site.

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