POLICE have seized what is believed to be cocaine with an estimated street value of around £200,000.

The drugs were discovered after three search warrants were executed out at addresses in Sunderland on Monday (August 15).

The addresses were in Hood Close, Southwick Road and a premises in Hadrian Street.

A significant amount of what is suspected to be cocaine was recovered – it is thought if the drugs are sold on the street they would be worth around £200,000.

Two men, aged 51 and 34, were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply. They have been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

The warrants were part of Operation Magnet – Northumbria Police's response to tackling organised crime.

Detective Inspector Paul Stewart said: "There is no place for organised crime in our communities and we will continue to focus our efforts on relentlessly pursuing those we suspect of being involved.

"These people cause harm to our communities - drugs have far reaching effects not just on those who take them who can become addicted to them and end up in debt and losing their home but those around them and local communities who have to put up with the anti-social behaviour of those taking drugs.

"Disrupting their supply onto our streets in the first place is a huge step in our war against drugs and yesterday our activity took a huge amount of drugs off the street and prevented them from getting into the wrong hands."

To report information about drugs or drug dealing in your area contact Northumbria Police on 101.