EIGHT people have been arrested and £5,000 worth of cannabis, cocaine and ketamine have been seized following police raids across Tyneside.

Police struck at eight properties across Gateshead and Newcastle on Wednesday, as part of Operation Salvator, which had already seen more than 60 arrests and nine men jailed since its inception two years ago.

Chief Inspector Steve Wykes who led on Wednesday's targeted strikes said: “These latest seizures and arrests are as the result of a great deal of hard work and intelligence gathering over many weeks – and highlight our ongoing proactive activity to target illegal drugs supply in our area.

“Operation Salvator has been running since early 2018 and is just one of the ways we are bringing justice against those who prey on the vulnerabilities of others, especially those trapped in the cycle of addiction.

“It’s is only right we recognise the harmful, and sometimes fatal consequences these illicit substances can have on individuals.

"We know this is not something which we can resolve purely through policing. Enforcement is just one part of a large and complex response to a wider societal issue, which is why we are committed to working with our partners to help tackle this from every possible angle."

He added: “If you are aware of drugs supply in your area, please get in touch and let us know so we can take action and prevent further harm.”

Councillor Clare Penny-Evans, Newcastle City Council cabinet member for communities and chair of Safe Newcastle, said: “Illicit drugs and drug supply networks cause significant harm to people, many of whom are vulnerable and open to exploitation at the hands of criminals seeking to gain a profit from the misfortune of others.

"“We have seen the devastating impact such substances can have on individuals, families and communities.

"We must continue to support those who need help, educate people of the risks they are taking when they consume these substances and provide appropriate advice. We must also continue to disrupt as far as possible the criminal networks that operate in our region.

“I’m really pleased that the incredible work carried out by Northumbria Police under the banner of Operation Salvator has seen yet more drugs seized and arrests made, and I would urge anybody who is struggling with substance misuse or is concerned for a friend or relative to seek support.”

Six men aged between 24 and 30 and a 30-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of supplying class A drugs. A 30-year-old man also believed to be connected to the conspiracy was arrested on Saturday, October 10 on suspicion of supplying class A drugs and has since been released under investigation.