Seven wanted suspects were successfully arrested over the Christmas/New Year period as the public rose to the challenge to assist officers in a police area.

The Northumbria force released images of their 15 not-so-festive fugitives a fortnight ago, appealing for information as to their possible whereabouts.

Each of the 15 were wanted in connection with a range of offences committed across the region, including burglary, stalking and assault.

Since the appeal was made a steady flow of intelligence and sightings provided by the public has led to seven of the suspects being detained and taken into custody.

Read more: Police release list of 15 most wanted criminals in North East

Three of those have since been charged with offences and are due to appear in court, two others have been escorted back to prison after breaching the terms of their licence conditions and the remaining pair remain under investigation.

Inquiries are ongoing to locate the remaining eight fugitives, who are believed to be actively evading arrest, despite knowing that they are wanted.

Superintendent Claire Wheatley, of Northumbria Police, said: “Time and time again, the public really do rise to the challenge and help us when we circulate the faces of wanted suspects.

Read more: Police release e-fit after serious assault in Barnard Castle

“That’s been the case again, and, over the last fortnight, we’re delighted to have arrested seven fugitives who were wanted in connection with serious offences.

“Thanks to your help, the wheels of the criminal justice system continue to turn effectively.

“One suspect has since been charged with wounding with intent to commit grievous bodily harm, robbery, burglary and witness intimidation and will appear at Newcastle Crown Court later this month.

“A second fugitive has been charged with robbery and has been remanded in custody until he appears in the same court in a few weeks’ time, while a third man has been charged with assault, multiple counts of criminal damage and harassment.

“All three will now have their day in court and that’s testament to the fantastic teamwork between officers and the public.

“Two further men who were wanted on prison recall are now also back behind bars, while two others were interviewed and remain under investigation.

Supt Wheatley said: “As a force, we’re committed to bringing effective justice against anybody believed to be responsible for committing crime in Northumbria.

“We are, therefore, asking the public to continue working with us and help us locate the remaining eight suspects.”

She urged the wider public: “Do you know where they are staying, or have you seen them in your community?

“If so, we want to know about it.”

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The remaining suspects include: Raymond Boyle, 50, of no fixed abode, wanted on prison recall; Byron Ford, 36, of Ashington, wanted in connection with a stalking offence; Jack Quinn, 26, of no fixed abode, wanted on prison recall; and, 43-year-old Martin Ross, from Newcastle, who is wanted in connection with a burglary

The suspects, or anyone who has information about their whereabouts, are asked to contact police immediately, via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the force’s website.

Alternatively, people can ring 101, quoting NP-20221221-0218, plus the suspect’s name.