More than 600 cannabis plants have been seized and two men charged in the latest police action against drug-related crime in Gateshead.

At around 12.15am on Tuesday, April 9, police attended an address in the Tynevale Avenue area of Winlaton after receiving a report of suspicious activity.

Once inside, officers discovered an established cannabis farm with a large quantity of plants at various stages of growth.The Northern Echo:

A 45-year-old and 23-year-old were arrested at the address on suspicion of cannabis production.

They were subsequently charged with the production of cannabis and appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (April 10) after which they were remanded in custody.

They will remain in custody until their next appearance at Newcastle Crown Court on Thursday, May 9.

Chief Inspector Gillian Beecroft, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is a great example of the work we are doing as a force to tackle drug-related crimes.

“This type of criminality can often lead to a whole host of other issues within the community, such as anti-social behaviour and violence.

“I hope this sends a clear message that we will not stop in our efforts to identify and disrupt anyone we believe to be engaged in this type of activity.

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The Northern Echo:

“We would encourage people to continue reporting any suspicious activity in their area, and our officers will proactively engage with any information received.”

Anyone wanting to report suspicious activity is asked to contact police using the ‘Report’ pages of the Northumbria Police website, or by calling 101.

In an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always call 999.