IT is an insidious crime. Drug gangs prey on the most vulnerable in society to peddle their wares. They wheedle their way into their homes and then callously exploit them.

The vile practice is known as cuckooing but now a crime-fighting charity has launched a new campaign to stop it but it is calling on the public’s help.

Earlier this year seven members of the Jay Boys, a gang from north and east London, were jailed for a combined total of 40 years for supplying Class A heroin and crack cocaine in Clacton over a three year period.

The gang had set up a base in a vulnerable addict’s house in Hadleigh Road, Clacton, which was used to bag up and move on drugs.

Crimestoppers said victims of cuckooing are often drug users but they can also include those suffering from mental or physical health concerns, female sex workers, single mums or those living in poverty and older people.

It said many victims also suffer from other forms of addiction, such as alcoholism.

They are fragile people who need support and help but instead are cruelly exploited.

Colin Dobinson, of Crimestoppers in Essex, said once gangs gain control, they move in with the risk of sexual exploitation and violence.

Both adults and children can be used as drug runners.

Mr Dobinson said: “Gangs could have access to several addresses.

“They move quickly between vulnerable people’s homes for just a few hours, a couple of days or sometimes longer.

“It helps them evade detection. Crimestoppers wants your help to make our communities safer because everyone has the right to feel safe from crime, wherever they live and work.

“Some vulnerable adults may even be forced to leave their homes, making themselves homeless whilst leaving gangs free to sell drugs.”

He added that gangs may also use properties in rural areas, including flats, holiday lets, budget hotels and caravan parks.

Caroline Wiggins, of the Essex Community Safety Partnership said: “Tackling gangs and organised crime groups is one of our priorities across the county and we are delighted to be able to support this Crimestoppers campaign.

“It is vital to get the message out to communities so they can be aware of the signs and help protect those vulnerable people in our society who are at risk of being targeted by these gangs.”

Residents are asked to keep a watch out for signs of cuckooing, including an increase in people entering and leaving a home as well as an increase in cars or bikes outside.

They might notice curtains being closed most of the time, an increase in anti-social behaviour, build-up of litter or signs of drugs use.

Anyone with information about possible cuckooing is asked to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the website at crimestoppers-uk.org. Information can be given confidentially.

For more information, contact press.office@crimestoppers-uk.org