FIVE people have been arrested and numerous cannabis plants have been located during a police incident in Peterlee town centre yesterday (January 13).

Investigating police officers were called to a building on Yoden Way in the town at around 1pm, where they discovered a large quantity of cannabis plants, along with some growing equipment.

The large haul was found as part of a partnership working operation between Durham Constabulary and County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service.

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Today (January 14), officers remain on the scene and there is expected to be a police presence for the remainder of Friday and into the weekend, while police investigations are ongoing into the drug-related incident.

Police bosses from Durham Constabulary have warned members of the public that this emergency service presence is “necessary” in Peterlee, but they have also urged people that this incident isn’t a threat to the community.

Inspector Gary Smith, of Peterlee Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The scene has been secured and members of the public may notice an increased visibility of police in the area for some time while we carry out further enquiries.

“However, we would like to stress that while there will be a significant presence of officers in the area, there is nothing for the community to have concerns about”.

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