Four arrests made as drugs, cash, and vehicles seized by police during Operation Impact in South Tyneside
Four arrests were made and drugs and cash were seized as Operation Impact kicked off 2026 in South Tyneside.
Officers from Northumbria Police were joined by partner agencies for the latest crackdown across the borough on Monday (February 9). The tackling of serious and organised crime began with two early morning warrants on South Frederick Street and Devonshire Street in South Shields, acting on community intelligence into suspected drug dealing.
At the first address, officers arrested a 48-year-old man on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug after discovering a quantity of white tablets. Officers then attended the second address, arresting a 31-year-old man in connection with suspected drug supply.
Inside the property, police recovered £3,500 in cash, some of which was hidden under a sofa, two balls of white powder believed to be cocaine with a value of around £10,000, mobile phones and other drug-related paraphernalia.
Elsewhere, officers from the Force’s Op Dragoon seized six bikes being ridden antisocially and a further three vehicles, while the Camera Enforcement Unit captured 171 speed offences and nine seatbelt offences.
Later in the day, a 37-year-old man was arrested for failing to comply with a community order, and a 40-year-old woman was arrested at Horsley Hill for racially aggravated public order offence. Officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) also carried out high visibility patrols in the town centre and transport hubs, conducting stop and searches.
They also worked alongside South Tyneside Council’s Trading Standards, Community Safety Business Responders, and Tenancy Enforcement Teams to visit business premises. Together, they served a number of premises to offer licencing advice and seized illicit vapes, tobacco products and toys from stores.
Detective Sergeant Kimberley Carr, of Northumbria Police, said: “Operation Impact is all about responding to community concerns and taking robust and bespoke action against those responsible for bringing criminality and antisocial behaviour into our local communities.
“Monday’s results have seen suspects locked up as well as vital prevention work alongside our partners, reflecting our commitment to tackling the root causes of crime and disorder. This latest day of action is just an example of the work done 24/7 to ensure the streets of South Tyneside stay a safe place to live, work, and visit.
“I would like to thank all of the officers involved and every partner agency who helped to ensure the first Operation Impact delivered once again. This targeted activity and subsequent results would not be possible without the reports received from our community and we’re always proving we’ll act on what you tell us.
“If you suspect criminality is happening on your doorstep, tell us.”
Anyone who suspects criminal activity is taking place in their area can send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use the live chat or report forms on the Force’s website. For those unable to make contact via those ways, call 101. In an emergency situation, or if a crime is taking place, always ring 999.
Cllr Jane Carter, lead member for housing and community safety for South Tyneside Council said: “Operation Impact sends a clear message that we will not tolerate crime or antisocial behaviour in our communities. Working alongside Northumbria Police, we’re taking swift action to protect residents and support legitimate businesses.
“Our teams will keep targeting anyone or anything putting our neighbourhoods at risk. We’re here to listen, act, and help keep South Tyneside safe.”