POLICE have successfully retained more than £100,000 seized from a suspected drug dealer or courier.

The suspect was identified as being part of a drug ring during investigations by Durham Police’s specialist crime operations unit.

It followed inquiries into the suspected transfer of drugs between the North-East and the Midlands.

The man’s movements were monitored, resulting in his car being stopped leaving County Durham, bound for the Midlands, in March 2013.

A search led to the recovery of £105,975 from the boot of the Ford Focus.

It was seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act as it was considered as profits from the supply of controlled drugs, or intended for use in possible further crimes by the driver or his “associates”.

No legitimate account was given for the presence of such a large sum, so the force’s financial investigation unit applied to North Durham magistrates for its forfeiture under proceeds of crime legislation.

It was approved at a hearing at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court last month.

But, Proceeds of Crime Act regulations allow suspected offenders four weeks to appeal against such forfeitures.

The four weeks lapsed on Monday (February 23), enabling police to complete the seizure process.

While half will go to the Home Office, the remaining 50-per cent, £52,987.50, can be used by police in Durham in the fight against crime and to improve the quality of life for local communities.

Detective Chief Inspector Victoria Fuller said it was part of Sledgehammer, the force’s continuing campaign to hit organised crime “where it hurts”.

She said: “We are continually targeting people involved in, or connected to organised crime groups.

“Just like legitimate business, the motivation of organised criminals is often money.

“They try to accumulate substantial assets and wealth from their crimes and we will do everything we can to stop them.

“Our efforts will continue to focus on individuals who negatively affect the quality of life and well-being of our communities.”

Cassie Wilson, of the force’s financial investigation team, said: “It is our aim to ‘take the cash out of crime’.

“No stone will be left unturned in order to identify criminal assets of people involved in serious crime in our area.

“Their assets will be seized and they will be prosecuted whenever possible.”

Anyone with information over suspected illegal cash or unexplained wealth is urged to contact Crimestoppers, anonymously if desired, via the charity’s website, crimestoppers-uk.org, or by calling 0800-555-111.