Strike day success – Nine arrests linked to suspected drug supply across the North East

Yesterday (Monday, May 18), warrants were executed as part of robust action to tackle suspected drug operations and activity.

The targeted action was carried out by officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), with the support of Cleveland Police and Durham Constabulary.

Suspected criminals got an early morning wake-up call by officer across 10 locations, including Hartlepool, Peterlee and Horden.

The strike day saw officers, police dogs and drones out and about, resulting in the arrest of nine suspects, seven men, aged 21 – 43 and two women aged 43 and 56, in relation to drug supply offences and exploitation.

Those arrested have now been bailed while the investigation continues.

Speaking after this latest activity, NEROCU Detective Inspector Gaye Martin, praised the partnership working by joined police forces and for the continuing robust action against suspected criminality in our region.

DI Martin said: “This has been an excellent result from the hard work of dedicated police teams across various organisations and I want to thank everyone involved for their efforts.

“We remain united across the North East in our pursuit of suspects, and protection of communities against the incredibly harmful consequences of drug supply and distribution.

DI Martin added: “We will continue working with partners under Operation Sentinel to dismantle the criminal groups who try to profit from the sale and supply of illegal drugs, as well as those contributing to the funding of organised crime.”

District Commander of Hartlepool Police, Superintendent Daryll Tomlinson, said: “We’ve worked closely with our colleagues in the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit on this investigation to target those supplying drugs in Hartlepool and the surrounding areas, tackling criminals who are exploiting young people in the town.

“Drugs cause misery in our communities and we’ll continue to do everything we can to stop drugs distribution Hartlepool. The result of this operation should send a clear message to these criminals, that we are watching you, we know who you are and will be relentless in out fight to stop drugs activity in our town.”

Detective Chief Inspector Lindsay Brown of Durham Constabulary said: “Organised crime gangs prey on vulnerable people and bring harm into our communities for their own profit.

“By working closely in partnership with NEROCU and Cleveland Police, we are identifying and dismantling these drug networks and targeting those responsible.

“To anyone involved in the supply of illegal drugs, expect us at your door next.”

If you have any information about drug supply, you can report it to your local police or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.