Drugs and weapons seized as latest Operation Impact tackles crime in communities

Dozens of arrests have been made with weapons and drugs seized – as police operation keeps up the heat on suspects.

The third Operation Impact has been taking place across the past fortnight, with officers executing warrants across the Force area while also carrying out prevention activity.

Ran yby Northumbria Police and supported by the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), local authorities and other partners, police have been out and about in the communities they serve with a focus on tackling serious violence.

Class A drugs, weapons including firearms, machetes, knuckle dusters and tasers were seized, as well as almost £4,000 in suspected criminal cash. A total of 67 people were arrested across the six days of action.

This latest activity also coincided with the national initiative Sceptre, which saw Northumbria join with forces across the country to tackle knife crime and serious violence.

As part of Sceptre activity, 229 knives were either handed in or seized, with 228 arrests made.

A total of 71 visits to high-risk offenders were undertaken, while teams working alongside their Trading Standards counterparts in local authorities made visits to 22 knife retailers to ensure that businesses were not selling knives to those who are underage.

Teams also carried out 42 weapons sweeps, while 61 educational events and 87 school engagement activities took place, carrying out vital work to warn young people of the dangers of choosing to pick up knives.

Northumbria Police’s Assistant Chief Constable Andy Hill was delighted with the impact of both operations.

He said: “Operation Impact is about tackling the issues which matter most to our communities in a very visible way – and ensuring people know that we are here when they need us.

“This is activity we are carrying out day-in day-out to keep people safe but it is not always seen.

“Our dedicated teams have been out across the Force to combat drug-dealing, seize weapons and make arrests for a variety of offences ranging from violent crime to anti-social behaviour to motorbike disorder.

“This activity also coincided with Sceptre and as a Force we are absolutely committed to playing our part in tackling knife crime and educating people about the dangers of carrying weapons.

“Our work does not stop here and I would ask that people continue to share vital information with us so we can take action.”

Assistant Chief Constable Hill added: “I’d like to thank all the officers, staff and volunteers who have been involved in this latest activity for their enthusiasm and dedication, as well as those in our partner organisations who have supported our efforts.

“As a Force we are absolutely committed to delivering an outstanding service, and in turn helping ensure our region continues to be a fantastic place to live, work and visit.”

If you are aware of any form of criminal activity taking place in your area, please contact police and report it. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.