Suspected drug dealer charged

Yesterday (Wednesday), officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), supported by Matrix officers from Cleveland Police, safely stopped a vehicle shortly before 5pm in the Cleveland area, with a search of the car revealing approximately 2.5 kilos of cocaine.

A man, 62, was then arrested and subsequently charged with possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and possession of Class B drugs. He appeared at Teesside Magistrates Court today (Thursday).

NEROCU Detective Inspector Simon Drenon, said: “This is a fantastic result for North East communities, who do not deserve to have organised criminals operating on their doorstep.

“Our officers acted swiftly in identifying a vehicle that is believed to be linked to supplying drugs and were able to apprehend the occupant safely and seize the vehicle.

“Thanks to the partnership operation we have a suspect charged and a large quantity of drugs taken out of circulation.

“We hope this sends a message to those engaging in criminality in our communities that we are committed to stopping this type of illegal activity and under Operation Sentinel – our region wide approach to tackled serious and organised crime – this will continue.”

Matrix Chief Inspector Stephen Clyburn said: “We will continue to work with our partners to tackle any suspected serious and organised crime, and in particular where people use our road networks for their own criminal gain, as we continue to help protect our communities from harm.”

Anyone who has information about suspicious activity in their area is asked to report it to their local police via 101.

You can also pass on information via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.