Durham Constabulary had yet another successful week tackling cross-border drug dealing.

It came as a part of a national operation, which saw over 180 arrests last week alone.

90 vulnerable individuals were also safeguarded.

This cooperative operation involved officer-led activities such as issuing warrants, shutting down of deal lines, seizing drugs and safeguarding those most vulnerable to exploitation.

Throughout the North East, a staggering 183 individuals were detained, demonstrating the magnitude of this critical issue.

Hexham Courant: Durham Constabulary had yet another successful week tackling cross-border drug dealing

Ian Randell, the regional county lines co-ordinator from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit, expressed gratitude towards the operations.

He said: "The public are now fully aware of the efforts ongoing year-round to tackle this type of organised drug crime.

"We are resilient and robust in our approach and intensification weeks like this are just one tactic at our disposal."

He further mentioned the significance of education in preventing future criminal involvement, stating: "Educating young and vulnerable people on the dangers of county lines and the exploitation that comes with it is also a crucial part of our work."

The operation, coordinated nationwide by the National County Lines Coordination Centre (NCLCC), took place from March 4 to March 10.