Police in South Shields have seized drugs with an estimated street value of approximately £25,000, leading to the arrest of a 61-year-old man. The seizure occurred on Friday, June 19, when officers from the Neighbourhood Support Team (NST) acted on suspicions of drug dealing at a property on Nevison Avenue.
Search yields significant haul
During a search of the address, officers discovered large quantities of prohibited Class C drugs, believed to be steroids, along with prescription-only medication. The total street value of the seized substances is estimated at £25,000. Additionally, police recovered around £7,000 in suspected criminal cash. In total, five sacks of prohibited products were confiscated and will be destroyed.
Arrest and bail
The arrested man, aged 61, was taken into custody on suspicion of importing a Class C drug. He has since been released on police bail while enquiries continue.
Police statement
Inspector David Heron of Northumbria Police commented: "I’m always grateful to my officers for their ongoing ability to dig a little deeper into things which seem a bit suspicious. Because they trusted their gut and paid this address a visit, we’ve been able to confiscate a significant haul of illegal and prescription drugs – which don’t belong in the hands of the users who end up with them." He added: "We hope that this sends a tough message to those dealing drugs in our towns and cities. Our dedicated team of officers will continue to act on any intelligence provided to make further arrests and seizures in this area."
Operation Sentinel
The operation is part of Northumbria Police's wider initiative, Operation Sentinel, which aims to disrupt serious and organised crime. Inspector Heron emphasised: "Under the banner of Operation Sentinel, we’ll continue to look to disrupt serious and organised crime – and keep these substances off the streets of South Tyneside."
How to report information
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected drug-dealing by contacting Northumbria Police via social media direct message, the live chat function on the Force website, or the online report forms. Those unable to use these methods can call 101.
