A man and woman have been arrested as part of a continued clampdown around money laundering.

Early yesterday morning (Wednesday), teams from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), carried out a strike on an address on Stamfordham Mews in Newcastle.

The targeted police operation saw an early morning wake-up call for the suspects who are believed to be laundering money for organised criminals.

Searches of the property resulted in the discovery of $43,824 dollars in crypto currency.

A woman, 30, and man, 29, were arrested on suspicion of money laundering and have both been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

NEROCU Detective Sergeant Andrea Smith, part of NEROCU’s Regional Economic Crime Unit, said: “Any criminality linked to financial supporting or enabling organised crime of any kind has no place in our communities, and we will always look to identify those believed to be responsible for such offences.

“For us those who launder money for criminals are equally responsible for the violence and destruction they bring to communities.

“This strike day is the latest in our work to tackle this crime type and pursue suspects and we’re making significant inroads in our mission to cut off the illicit funds of organised gangs.

“Work just like today will continue under the banner of Operation Sentinel – our regional approach to disrupting and tackling Serious and Organised Crime here in the North East.”

Anyone who has any information about criminal activity, can report it to their local police or via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.