HEROIN and crack cocaine worth thousands of pounds has been recovered during police raids.

Operation Axe, carried out on Wearside by Northumbria Police, targeted drugs suppliers in Houghton-le-Spring and the Hendon and Castletown areas of Sunderland.

Officers arrested 26 people from 13 addresses over five days, seizing drugs with a street value of £3,500 and about £10,000 in cash. Five vehicles were also impounded.

Those arrested have all been charged with conspiracy to supply drugs and face court hearings.

They have also been referred to other agencies working with Northumbria Police to tackle drug addiction and misuse.

Chief Superintendent Jim Campbell said: "Operation Axe was not just about locking people up.

"The fight against drugs is about reducing the demand and treating addicts. Treating people for drugs misuse goes a long way in helping to get drugs off the streets.

"It's a market led economy, which needs a longer-term solution.

"This is the first time we have planned a multi-agency operation, which marries enforcement with treatment and it has proved to be much more effective."

Glynis Jones, of Sunderland Drug Action Team, said: "Tackling drugs is not just a police problem, but involves community safety, health trusts, social services, youth offending teams and education services. We need to act quickly to make a difference. Drug problems affect communities and families."