South Shields man charged as police seize weapons, drugs and illegal bikes following an alleged armed robbery
Police have seized weapons, money, illegal electric motorbikes and suspected Class A drugs following an alleged robbery in South Shields.
A South Shields man has appeared before magistrates following a reported knifepoint robbery that has seen weapons, money, suspected Class A drugs and two Sur-Ron bikes seized.
Stephen Hunter, of Chichester Road, was among four men arrested in connection with the alleged incident and he has since been charged with possession of an offensive weapon and possession of Class A drugs.
Alleged knifepoint robbery
Police were called to Binchester Street, in South Shields, shortly after 10pm on Thursday, July 16, following reports that two suspects had attempted to take a motorbike off a victim using a knife.
Officers from Northumbria Police’s South Shields Response Policing Team (RPT) and their Neighbourhood Support Team (NST) attended the scene where they obtained descriptions of the suspects and secured CCTV footage.
Inquiries led police to an address in the Westoe area where they forced entry into a property and seized multiple weapons, £2,000 in cash, two Sur-Ron bikes and a quantity of suspected Class A drugs.
Following his arrest and charge, Hunter appeared before Newcastle Magistrates’ Court the following morning (Friday, July 17) where he was remanded in custody until his next court date in August.
Northumbria Police have confirmed that the three other arrested suspects have been released under investigation.
‘A fantastic example of fast-paced response policing’
Inspector James Younas, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the victim, and we continue to support them through this time in any way we can.
“Thanks to quick-thinking, teamwork and excellent communication, we were able to locate the suspects and uncover multiple weapons and suspected drugs.
“This was a brilliant result and is a fantastic example of fast-paced response policing.
“Please remember that if you do have concerns about something in your area, we are here to listen, take note and carry out the necessary action.
“Burglary and robbery is an invasive crime and can leave a lasting impact on those who fall victim.
“We’d ask that you please continue to work with us. If you’ve witnessed suspicious activity in your neighbourhood, then let us know.
“Send us a DM or use the live chat or ‘report’ form functions on our website.”