THROUGHOUT September, Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Policing Team and officers from Middlesbrough Response have stepped up work across the TS1 postcode area in an attempt to disrupt street dealing and drugs activity. 

Both plain clothed and high visibility patrols across Central and Newport has led to 26 arrests on suspicion of drug related offences. 

In addition to this, officers have stopped and searched a further 17 people suspected of being in possession of controlled drugs.

The team, working closely with partners, have also targeted five addresses, and are working on a number of closure orders in an attempt to improve life for the communities around them.

Chief Inspector Tomlinson said: “We have worked with the local authority and listened to feedback from community surveys. We are working together to continue the activity by tackling drug related crime and antisocial behaviour and are helping to make Middlesbrough a safer place to live.

“We have listened to the public and partners and stepped up our proactivity in response. I would continue to urge anyone with information regarding drugs activity to contact us, or Crimestoppers.”

Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston said: “I’ll keep on saying it – drugs are the biggest issue we face in Middlesbrough right now, they blight lives, cause crime and make good people’s lives a misery.

“This is another reminder that we won’t rest on our laurels in the fight against drugs and all the problems that come with them. I want to thank everyone involved in this month of action to disrupt street dealing and other illegal activity.

"To make 26 arrests is a great result and hopefully sends out a message that we won’t put up with it.”