Officers stopped a white transit van on Wilton Street in Middlesbrough after finding it was being driven without insurance.[1] The 59-year-old passenger was detained and searched with his property, and officers found drugs and drug paraphernalia.[1] He was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A and class B drugs.[1] A search of the 42-year-old driver found cannabis, and he was arrested on suspicion of conspiring to supply a class A drug and driving without insurance.[2]

The stop led to a reported discovery of cash, cannabis and drug bags.[1] Cleveland Police photographs show the drug paraphernalia discovered during the search.[1] Cleveland Police confirmed both men were released on bail while enquiries are ongoing.[1]

Sergeant Sproson of Middlesbrough’s proactive team said the stop was part of continuing work against drug dealing.[1] He said drug dealing often contributes to serious violence and other crime such as robbery.[1] He asked people who believe drug dealing is taking place in their neighbourhood to report it by calling 101 or via the force website.[1]