County lines drug gangs 'target vulnerable university students crippled by debt'

County lines drug gangs are targeting debt-hit university students.

Some victims have already ended up in court and we can reveal that the Security Association, whose members provide ­campus guards, has held staff ­training days with former gang members.

Hardyal Dhindsa, the Police and Crime Commissioner who leads on drugs, said: “It’s a tactic to go for vulnerable young people. Universities are now just an extension of their operation.”

A court heard how University of Leicester student Adeola Shonibare, 21, had to sell drugs to pay off a debt in London.

And dealer Ryan Manzeke, 18, was caught after setting up as a student at Northampton University.

Dealer Ryan Manzeke, 18, was caught after setting up as a student at Northampton University (Metropolitan Police)

Some students have been caught selling drugs to pay off their debts (Getty)

Drug user on benefits with council house dressed as rough sleeper to feed habit  

It emerged last November that private schools were being targeted.

Next week’s Association of University Chief Security Officers summit is the first time the uni link to county lines will be discussed publicly.

Professor Martin Innes, director of the Crime and Security Research Institute, said: “There’s a market for people with debts and people wanting to make money, so you’ve got a good combination.”