THE illegal drugs trade was dealt a blow yesterday when a police operation involving dozens of officers resulted in the arrest of a number of suspected heroin dealers.

Police officers carried out a number of raids on private houses in the Chester-le-Street area, at 8.45am, - marking the final phase of Operation Pembroke, which was launched in February.

About 80 officers were involved, including detectives from the proactive CID unit at Chester-le-Street, beat and core officers, officers trained in method-of-entry and search techniques and drug detection dogs.

The people arrested - seven men and four women - were taken into custody at Durham City police station and were questioned during the day.

All have been detained on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs with the exception of one of man, who was arrested for breaching a court order.

The operation started with a dawn briefing at which Assistant Chief Constable Michael Banks said: "A lot of effort and a lot of good police work has gone into this.

"It is really important that we make the best of what have got and really make a good strike."

Officers were advised to seize all mobile phones, SIM cards and any documents which could be used as evidence.

They were also advised to check for loose floorboards and tiles.

Officers were also warned about the dangers of needles in what was deemed a "low risk assessment" action.

Police then targeted houses in Tuart Street and Fifth Avenue in Chester-le-Street, Windsor Terrace, in nearby Great Lumley, Arthur Street, in High Handenhold, John Street, in No Place, as well as Butler Road, in Newton Aycliffe.

Officers from Northumbria Police made an arrest at a house in the Sulgrave area of Washington, Wearside.

Chester-le-Street Community Inspector Paul Anderson said: "This long-running operation has been several months in the planning and has been designed to break up and disrupt the supply of heroin in and around Chester-le-Street.

"Those who choose to get involved in this sort of criminal activity should be aware they will become police targets.

"The knock-on effects of drug dealing, such as petty crime and anti-social behaviour, also affect the wider community.

"By taking this sort of action we hope that we can improve the quality of life for all of our residents."