POLICE have aimed to tighten the net over drug availability on Wearside with a string of raids targeting suspected dealers.

Over the last fortnight, officers have executed warrants at several addresses in the Hendon area of Sunderland believed to be associated with the supply of class A and B drugs throughout the city.

The occupants of a property on Tower Street West received a surprise wake-up call on May 12 after neighbourhood officers forced entry and seized quantities of cocaine, heroin and cannabis.

Several other addresses were also searched as part of the crackdown, including a property on Noble Street, on May 15.

Neighbourhood Inspector Jamie Southwell said the raids send out a strong message.

“We know of the devastating and potentially fatal consequences that drug misuse can have, not only for users, but their families and the community as a whole.

“This proactive operation follows some concerns raised by the community in Hendon about suspected drug dealing in their area.

“As a result, we’ve carried out a number of raids and taken a large amount of illegal substances off the streets.

“The recent positive action will no doubt have dented the pockets of organised criminals, and we will continue to detect and disrupt drug-related crimes under the banner of Operation Sentinel.”

Following the Tower Street West raid, a 40-year-old man was arrested and charged with possessing heroin and cocaine.

He is due to appear before magistrates in South Tyneside next month.

A woman, aged 29, was handed a caution after being found to be in possession of a small quantity of cannabis.

Following the search at the address on Noble Street, officers were satisfied no drugs were present, but a 34-year-old male occupant was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to commit grievous bodily harm, in connection with an incident on Tower Street, on May 6.

He has been released on bail and inquiries are continuing.

Anyone concerned about drug-dealing or drug misuse in their area is encouraged to contact police on 101 or by using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Northumbria force website.