14/09/2026
🚨 AWARENESS: WHAT IS CUCKOOING? 🚨
Cuckooing is a form of exploitation where criminals target the homes of vulnerable people and use them as a base for criminal activity, often involving the supply and dealing of drugs.
The person whose home is being used may be isolated, vulnerable or experiencing difficulties, and can be pressured, threatened or manipulated into allowing others to take over their property.
The signs aren't always obvious.
You may notice:
🔸 Different people regularly coming and going from a property
🔸 Increased activity at unusual times
🔸 People who don't appear to live at the address
🔸 A sudden increase in visitors or unfamiliar vehicles
🔸 People appearing to monitor or control who enters the property
🔸 Someone who previously lived independently becoming isolated or withdrawn
🔸 A property becoming associated with suspected drug activity
It is important to remember that the person living at the address may be a victim, not a willing participant.
If something doesn't feel right, don't ignore it.
📞 If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
📞 To report concerns or suspected drug-related activity to Essex Police, call 101.
📞 You can also make an anonymous report to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Cuckooing can happen in our communities, and recognising the signs could help protect someone from exploitation.
👀 See something? Say something.
