Three in the cells after drug strike

Three arrested after warrants executed at three addresses in Darlington as part of robust action to tackle suspected drug supply.

Last Friday (November 21), officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), with the support of Durham Constabulary, carried out warrants on Lansdowne Street, Beaconsfield Street and Sailsbury Terrace.

The strike day resulted in the arrest of three suspects, one 23-year-old man and two women aged 23 and 52, on suspicion of conspiracy to supply controlled drugs and money laundering.

All three were released on bail while enquiries continue.

Searches of the premises resulted in the seizure of an estimated £12,000 in cash, several digital devices, and a quantity of cannabis.

Speaking after this latest activity, Sergeant Neil Lovat, part of NEROCU’s Disruption Team, praised the officers involved for continuing to take robust action against suspected criminality in our region.

Sgt Lovat said: “I want to thank everyone involved who helped secure this fantastic result. Three more suspects in the cells as we continue to disrupt and dismantle drug supply and organised crime across the North East.

“Nobody wants this type of criminality happening in their community and we will remain dedicated to protecting the public from the violence and exploitation that this type of criminality brings.”

Sgt Lovat added: “We work with our partners, under Operation Sentinel, to dismantle the criminal groups who try to profit from the sale and supply of illegal drugs, as well as those laundering money and contributing to the funding of organised crime.”

If you have any information about drug supply, you can report it to your local police or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.