Police spotted carrying out a search of a storage site seized drugs, weapons and cash during the four day operation.
Officers and police vehicles were spotted at the storage site on the Roman Way Industrial site, near the Tindale tip in Bishop Auckland over the weekend.
Pictures from the scene showed people wearing blue gloves working at the site.
Read more: Child, 3, airlifted to hospital with suspected broken leg after being hit by car
Durham Police have now explained the reason for the operation, which saw them execute a warrant issued by magistrates.
During the search a quantity of weapons, drugs, counterfeit tobacco and cash was seized.
To get more stories direct to your email basket go here
A total of 150 privately-rented containers were examined and several bladed weapons, air weapons, imitation firearms, cannabis, a large quantity of cash and other drug paraphernalia were all found.
They will now be examined by forensic officers.
The site has reopened and police have thanked members of the public for their cooperation during the disruption.
Read next:
- EXCLUSIVE | Girl left in pain with 9 MONTH wait for surgery to solve tip-toe walking condition
- One man dead another beaten unconscious during night of violence, court hears
- Bid to find winner of unclaimed £360k lotto winnings from County Durham
Get more from The Northern Echo with a Premium Plus digital subscription from as little as only £1.50 a week. Click here
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Fuller, of Durham Constabulary, said: “Officers and staff worked tirelessly over the last couple of days to make certain the operation ran smoothly, ensuring the safe removal of various weapons.
“Following the discovery, an investigation has now been launched as part of action to disrupt organised criminality across County Durham and Darlington.
“I would like to thank the public for their co-operation and understanding during the disruption and would encourage anyone with information on potential criminal activity in their area to call us on 101 or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 08000 555 111.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel