Suspected drug dealer arrested in Jesmond as part of Newcastle universities' anti-social behaviour crackdown

Northumbria Police have seized thousands of pounds, as well as quantities of suspected Class A and B drugs and arrested a man, as part of a Newcastle operation

Police deployed as part of Operation Oak sighted a vehicle in the Jesmond area of the city, with the occupant believed to be dealing illegal substances through Snapchat and Telegram apps. 

The vehicle was again linked to further suspected drug dealing, with officers stopping the car on the evening of Saturday, January 27.

Inside they found £2,500 in cash, as well as quantities of what is thought to be cocaine, ketamine, cannabis.

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Two mobile phones, with one believed to be used as a deal line, were also recovered alongside other evidence of drug-dealing.

A man – aged 36 – was arrested by police and he has now been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Sergeant Gary Sharpe, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was excellent work by officers, who spotted something was not quite right and took the initiative to stop the vehicle in question.

“We have now been able to seize a sizeable haul of suspected illicit substances and what we believe to be criminal cash gained from dealing drugs.”

Sgt Sharpe added: “We’d ask that the public continue to be our eyes and ears in helping us to detect this kind of criminality.

“If you see something suspicious in your community, please do not hesitate to contact us.”

Operation Oak is a police-led initiative funded by Northumbria and Newcastle Universities.

The dedicated resource carries out high-visibility patrols in residential areas that are heavily populated by students.  

The operation is aimed at tackling student-related anti-social behaviour or disorder along with addressing any vulnerabilities or safeguarding concerns, while also offering crime prevention advice.

Seen something suspicious in your area? Use the ‘Report’ page on the Northumbria Police website or call 101.

In an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, call 999.