Five people have been arrested – as well as a haul of drugs valued at more than £62,000 seized – as part of a continued crackdown on serious crime in the North East.

The latest activity comes as part of Operation Safou which aims to tackle criminality in South Tyneside and Sunderland – with a particular focus on suspects linked to organised crime, serious violence and drug supply.

Neighbourhood officers in the Hylton Castle area of Sunderland executed a warrant on Thursday, July 20, at a property on Cranleigh Road.

Read more: Two arrests on drugs charges after police raid in Hemlington

Upon gaining entry, officers quickly discovered a haul of drugs suspected to be amphetamine worth around £1,000.

The team also seized five machetes, an air rifle and BB pistol, alongside imitation police uniform and a riot shield.

A 47-year-old man who was present at the address was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs.

He has since been released on police bail, pending further enquiries.

On Wednesday, July 26, officers descended on two South Shields addresses that were reportedly linked to dealing drugs in the community.

The first warrant on Bamford Walk uncovered a stash of cocaine with a street value of £1,000 – as well as £1,180 in cash.

A 41-year-old man and 60-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

A second raid was later carried out at another property in the area on Cheshire Grove.

Here officers seized a significant haul of drugs – suspected to be cocaine – with a street value estimated at around £60,000.

A 34-year-old woman and a 38-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

The four who were arrested have since been released on police bail, as the investigations continue.

Detective Superintendent Rob Bosson, of Northumbria Police, who praised officers said:  “This latest activity is just another example of the continued efforts by police across the Force area to stamp out illegal drug supply and organised crime.

“To uncover such a significant amount of drugs with a staggering street value of five figures – as well as a haul of dangerous items and weapons linked to criminality – was a huge win for police and the wider public.

“I would like to thank everyone involved the recent activity, including those in our communities who continue to support us by telling us about suspected criminality in their area.

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“No-one wants this type of criminality happening on their doorstep and it often can lead to a range of other issues such as anti-social behaviour and violence – so we would urge the public to remain vigilant and report any concerns to us as soon as possible.

“And our message to those involved in serious and organised crime in the community is simple – there is nowhere to hide and we are coming for you next.”

Anyone who sees anyone acting suspiciously in their community, or has any information about local crime can report it using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101.