Watch as police carry out drugs raids

Four people have been arrested and cash and drugs seized in early morning raids at properties throughout East Durham.
Police carry out early morning raids in East DurhamPolice carry out early morning raids in East Durham
Police carry out early morning raids in East Durham

A total of 35 officers from Durham Constabulary paid suspected drug dealers a surprise visit, today, as part of Operation Relentless. The move is aimed at targeting and tackling the supply of drugs in the area. Following searches in Eleventh Street, Twelfth Street, Seymour Street and Cotsford Park Estate, in Horden, three men and a woman were arrested while cash and drugs, believed to be heroin and amphetamine, was seized. Between 15-20 cannabis plants were also discovered - believed to have a street value of £15,000.One woman is also due to attend the station as a voluntary attender. The raids, which saw all four homes targeted simultaneously, were as a result of information passed to police from concerned residents and intelligence from previous operations. Inspector Lee Blakelock said: “We continue to work closely with the community to listen to their concerns. “We executed several warrants in December and today sees more action against those who feel it acceptable to blight our community through crime, drugs and anti-social behaviour.“What I want to make clear is that we work closely with partner agencies to tackle crime from all angles whether it be tenancy enforcement to children’s services. “This ensures we not only tackle the crime, but look further into the family dynamics. We want to make sure children grow up in a community that is safe and free from harm.“This operation demonstrates we will tackle this issue and this is not the end of it. So the message is clear, you will not get away with it, we will come knocking for you next.”In Eleventh Street, a 34-year-old woman was arrested on suspion of being in posession of heroin with intent to supply.In Twelfth Street, one man was arrested who was wanted on warrant. At the same address a woman was spoken to at the address and will attend the station as a voluntary attender. Drugs believed to amphetamine, two mobile phones and cash was seized.In Seymour Street, one man was arrested on suspicion of being concerned on the cultivation of cannabis.In Cotsford Park Estate, a 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs. Cannabis was also seized from the property.Insp Blakelock added: “We actively encourage people to report any suspicious activity and to give us the intelligence. This can be done through either Crimestoppers, calling 101 or through messaging us on our social media Facebook page.”

A mobile PACT will take place at 1.30pm today at the Parish Council building in Horden where officers will be available to speak to residents.