A drug dealer who re-entered the country illegally after being deported was caught carrying a CS canister when police searched his Mercedes.

Edwin Taha was arrested after cocaine, cash and gold jewellery were recovered from the car and his home when he was stopped last month in Hartlepool.

The 24-year-old was driving along Grange Road on September 14 when he was pulled over by officers.

Taha, of Park Lane, Middlesbrough, pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply, possession of a prohibited weapon – the CS spray, entering the country illegally, driving without a licence and driving without insurance.

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He pleaded not guilty to two charges of possession of criminal property, the cash and gold, and was told that those charges would lie on file.

Emma Atkinson, prosecuting, said investigations were being carried out to determine whether a proceeds of crime application will be submitted for the cash and gold.

Judge Francis Laird KC adjourned the case until next month for sentence.