Cuckooing

Cuckooing is a form of exploitation where criminals take over the home of a vulnerable person to use it for illegal activities often drug dealing, human trafficking, or exploitation. Victims may be elderly, disabled, experiencing addiction, or socially isolated.

Signs Someone May Be a Victim of Cuckooing

• Unusual visitors at all hours.
• Increased anti-social behaviour or noise.
• The resident appears anxious, withdrawn, or fearful.
• Sudden changes in routines or appearance.
• The property looks neglected or damaged.
• The person is no longer seen regularly.

Raise a concern

If you are a member of the public and are concerned someone may be a victim of cuckooing -

• Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger.
• For non-emergencies, call 101.