64 vehicles seized by police in clampdown on drug dealers

More than 60 vehicles were taken off the roads during an operation to stop suspected drug dealers in their tracks.

Officers aimed to disrupt organised criminal groups in Ashington and Bedlington and used intelligence to target suspected offenders.

As part of the operation, drivers were pulled over and tested for cocaine and cannabis use at the roadside.

Those who tested positive were arrested and had further drugs testing. Their vehicles were also seized.

Last month, 64 vehicles were uplifted – bringing the total number this year to just over 200 – half of which have been impounded and crushed.

A total of 30 suspected drug-drivers have been arrested - 25 are believed to have had links to organised crime.