A suspected dealer has been arrested and a large drugs haul recovered by police thanks to the vigilance of eagle-eyed officers.

Police spotted a vehicle of interest in the Wallsend area of North Tyneside, shortly after 7pm on Thursday (February 9).

It appeared to be driven by a man who was believed to be associated with local drug supply.

Response officers subsequently instructed the driver to pull over, and immediately suspected the driver to be under the influence of drugs.

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When they searched his vehicle, officers found more than 600 suspected Pregabalin tablets, which were seized, as well as large quantities of other prescription drugs.

The officers also discovered almost £1,000 in cash and a hammer, which was concealed under the driver’s seat.

A 41-year-old suspect was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply and driving whilst under the influence of drugs.

Chief Inspector Phillip McConville, of Northumbria Police, said: “I would like to commend those involved in this fast-paced incident, where officers trusted and acted upon their instincts.

“When it became clear the occupant of the vehicle was showing signs of driving under the influence, our immediate priorities were protecting the public and making sure the vehicle was no longer a risk to other road users.

Read more: Drugs and weapons seized across Northumbria Police area

“Thankfully, officers were able to safely pull the car over and search the vehicle, locating a haul of illicit substances.

“We are reliant on information from within our local communities to assist us in building a bigger picture of what is going on in the area.”

He urged anyone with suspicions over the activities in the community to contact police directly, so action can be taken.

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The individual involved in the has been released under investigation whilst enquires continue.

Anyone who has information about drug supply in their area is asked to report it to police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Northumbria force website, or by calling 101.

Information can also be passed on via the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, by calling (0800) 555111.