'Our clampdown will continue' - 9 arrested as police crack down on serious organised crime in South Tyneside

This comes after police received reports of properties and vehicles being damaged over the last two weeks in what are being treated as linked attacks. As a result, nine males – aged between 15 and 21 – were arrested yesterday (Tuesday) on suspicion of offences including affray, criminal damage and drugs possession. They all currently remain in police custody.

Items including suspected cannabis, a machete, and a Samurai sword have also been seized during property searches. At this stage, it is believed that those involved are known to each other. Detective Chief Inspector William Kemp, of Northumbria Police, said: “We want to be clear, we will absolutely not tolerate this type of behaviour in our communities.

“The safety of the public is our utmost priority, and we are committed to finding those responsible for carrying out this activity and bringing them to justice. Our action does not end here – and anyone who is involved in serious and organised crime needs to know that our clampdown will continue.

“We will also continue to have an increased presence in place to provide a visible reassurance in our impacted communities. As always, we would also ask people with any information about criminal activity to report this to us so we can build up a full picture of what is happening and take action.”

The latest arrests build on the work carried out last month to disrupt serious and organised crime. This saw nine people – eight men and a woman – brought into custody. A haul of weapons and several vehicles believed to be used in disorder were also recovered at the time.

Anyone with information 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. Please quote: NP-20251021-0544. You can also pass on information via independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.