Seven more arrests have been made on Teesside as part of an operation tackling alleged organised crime following the fatal A66 crash. Four men, aged 35, 25, 40 and 21, were being held on suspicion of criminal damage with intent to endanger life after a vehicle crashed into a house in Steele Crescent, Middlesbrough.
Arrests and Seizures
They were also being questioned over alleged arson after a caravan was set alight in Atlee Road on Wednesday morning, and a drugs offence. The men were in a vehicle when they were stopped by police on Kingsley Road in Grangetown on Thursday night.
A quantity of class A drugs has been seized as well as a Mercedes, officers confirmed.
Further Arrests and Bail
The three other men arrested were a 23-year-old man, on suspicion of threats to kill, a 42-year-old on suspicion of threats to kill and possession of criminal property, and a 30-year-old on suspicion of possession of criminal property. All three have been released on conditional bail.
In addition to the three arrests, officers also seized £15,000 in cash. It brings the total number of people arrested since the A66 crash to 24.
Police Statement
Assistant Chief Constable Wayne Fox said: "This latest disruptive activity now brings the total number of arrests to 24 since the investigation commenced. Several suspects arrested throughout the course of this week have been charged with serious offences and a number of offenders have been recalled to prison.
"This robust approach demonstrates our commitment and determination to pursue those who we believe are intent on causing serious violence and harm to our communities. Be assured, our relentless pursuit of suspected organised criminals will not waver.
"I want to encourage anyone who believes serious violence and organised crime is taking place in their neighbourhood to report it so we can keep on taking action."
Investigation Update
Detectives confirmed on Friday that they are not linking a house fire which killed a seven-year-old girl and her aunt to the A66 crash which killed seven people, including two police officers.
To report information to Cleveland Police, either call 101 or visit the force's website. In an emergency call 999, and you can alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or by visiting their website.
