A WOMAN has been arrested after she was found cutting up a quantity of suspected heroin, police revealed last night.

Officers who raided the property in Hartlepool, found the 35-year-old in the process of preparing the drug into individual wraps.

Officers found nine wraps of the drug sealed in kitchen foil.

A number of syringes, believed to be loaded with heroine were found, as well as other drugs paraphernalia, said a spokesman for Cleveland Police.

Altogether, the suspected drugs have a street value of several hundred pounds.

The woman and five men, aged between 21 and 36, who were in the property at the time, were arrested and released on police bail pending forensic tests on the substances retrieved.

One of the men was taken to Hartlepool General Hospital for treatment.

Detective Inspector Tony Riordan said: "There will be no let up on the part of police in cracking down on suspected drug dealers.

"The public can also help in the battle against drugs in the town by informing others of suspected dealing.

"All information we receive is acted upon and treated in strict confidence."