Joggers in London. (Drawing) – Ben Cawthra / REX / SIPA
The clothes do not make the man. British police had further proof of this during the confinement. To move freely during this,
drug traffickers dressed in
joggers or used fake caregiver badges. However, they were “taking into account government recommendations on social distancing,” said Professor Simon Harding, director of the National Gang Research Center (NCGR) at the University of West London. If they did everything to avoid being contaminated, their business continued, hence the use of clothing strategy in particular.
“Cars are used more often to make arranged transactions over the phone, with products thrown out the window,” said Professor Harding. Young people and vulnerable people are also employed to transport drugs and money.
“By continuing to sell drugs, they increase the risk of spreading”
The National Crime Agency (NCA) had already warned last month about new tactics deployed by the dealers, worried about being spotted more easily by the police when the population is called upon to stay at home.
“In some cases, drug traffickers pose as key workers in case they are arrested and interrogated,” the NCA said in a statement, referring to professionals still allowed to move despite the confinement. “By continuing to sell drugs, they greatly increase the risk of spreading the virus,” said the NCA.
