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What is cuckooing?

2nd January 2025

Cuckooing is when organized criminals take over the home of a vulnerable adult for criminal activity. Different types if cuckooing include:

  • Using the property to deal, store or take drugs.
  • Using the property to engage with sex work.
  • Taking over the property as a place for criminals to live.
  • Taking over the property to financially abuse the tenant.

The most common form of cuckooing is where drug dealers take over a person’s home and use it to store or distribute drugs. In some cases, the criminals will move into a person’s home and pay other neighbours to watch the person(s) coming and going from the property.

Spotting the signs of cuckooing

Possible signs of cucking may include:

  • Possible increase in anti-social behaviour.
  • Frequent visitors at unsociable hours.
  • Signs of drug use, such as unusual smells coming from a property.
  • Changes in the resident’s daily routine.
  • Not seeing the person who lives there and when you do, there is a clear change in behaviour and may appear anxious.
  • Suspicious or unfamiliar vehicles outside an address.

Do you know someone who might be a victim of cuckooing?

Firstly, notice the signs - Look out for your neighbours, especially if there has been a change in behaviour, use the list above to help.

Next, evidence your concerns - Make a note of your concerns, times, dates, what has happened and identity or names of people coming in and out.

Finally, stay safe - It is important that you are safe. Do not approach any of the people you believe may be cuckooing your neighbour or take photographs.

You can report cuckooing to:

Bury Housing Services: 0161 686 8000

Greater Manchester Police: 101

CrimeStoppers: 0800 555 111