A BBC investigation has identified 1,539 incidents of ‘cuckooing’ reported to police in London between May 2025 and April 2026, where drug gangs have taken over residential properties from vulnerable occupants.
The practice involves criminals targeting elderly, disabled, or drug-dependent individuals and forcibly occupying their homes to store and sell drugs. Victims are often confined to single rooms whilst gangs operate from the remainder of the property.
Legislative response
Cuckooing was criminalised under the Crime and Policing Act 2026, though enforcement has not yet commenced. The legislation forms part of broader efforts to combat county lines drug operations, which exploit vulnerable individuals and residential properties.
Law enforcement agencies have begun using closure orders to remove intruders whilst allowing legitimate tenants to remain in their homes. The approach aims to address the criminal activity without displacing vulnerable occupants.
The Home Office has allocated £34 million this year to the County Lines Programme, which targets drug dealing gangs and organised crime groups. A spokesperson described the BBC’s findings as “appalling” and confirmed the government’s commitment to protecting affected communities.
Property implications
The scale of cuckooing presents challenges for landlords and letting agents operating across London, particularly in identifying and responding to unauthorised occupation. Properties affected by cuckooing can suffer significant damage, with the BBC documenting cases of extreme squalor.
In one documented case, a woman identified as Jackie was confined to her bedroom after a drug gang took control of her flat. The investigation revealed multiple instances where occupants lived under threat of violence from gang members.
The actual number of affected properties may exceed reported figures, as victims often fail to report incidents due to fear of reprisal. The issue affects both private rental properties and social housing across the capital.
Sector response
The property sector faces increased scrutiny regarding tenant welfare and property management practices. Letting agents and property managers are being called upon to implement more robust monitoring systems to identify potential cuckooing situations.
Industry professionals note that cuckooing can significantly impact property values and neighbourhood stability, particularly in areas with high concentrations of vulnerable tenants. The criminal activity also complicates possession proceedings and property maintenance obligations for landlords.
The figures obtained by the BBC represent only London-based incidents, suggesting the national scale of cuckooing may be substantially higher. Law enforcement agencies continue to develop strategies to address the issue whilst protecting vulnerable occupants from exploitation and homelessness.