A suspected drug dealer has been arrested as part of a wider crackdown aimed at disrupting distribution of illicit substances.

Police launched an investigation in May last year under the banner of Operation Sentinel, described as a region-wide “united front” to tackle the illegal supply of drugs and dismantle the criminal organisations supplying them.

As part of the ongoing investigation, officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) received intelligence suggesting a suspected dealer was selling cocaine and was believed to be operating out of the North East.

It resulted in the arrest of a 23-year-old man on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs, earlier this week.

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The suspect has subsequently been released, “under investigation”.

A search carried out at his address in the Blyth area of Northumberland led to the seizure of quantities of what is suspected to be cocaine and ecstasy, as well as electronic devices, including mobile phones and a laptop, which may have been used in drug transactions.

Under the Proceeds of Crime Act, officers also seized £4,000 from the man’s bank account, plus £4,000 in cryptocurrency, as well as his car.

Speaking after the arrest, Andrew Richmond, from NEROCU said: “This is a very complex investigation into the supply and distribution of illicit drugs.

“Through hard work and information sharing between partners we were able to make an arrest of a suspect and continue our efforts to tackle this form of organised crime.”

But he pledged: “Our work won’t stop there.

“This is another investigation where we have demonstrated the great lengths we will go to tackle and disrupt organised crime and the range of resources at our disposal.

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“Wherever and however these offenders operate, we will continue our work to dismantle their criminal operations.”

Jimmy Watson, the head of Cyber, Technical and Digital Capabilities for NEROCU, said: “This has been a fantastic example of a co-ordinated strike against someone suspected of distributing drugs on a large-scale and operating from right here in our region.

“I want to thank all the officers and staff involved.

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“Their hard work has ensured an arrest and, as part of Operation Sentinel, we will continue to work with partners to tackle serious and organised crime and the illegal supply of drugs.”

Anyone who suspects drug misuse or supply in their area is asked to report it to their local police force’s website, or by calling 101.

Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously, on (0800) 555111.