Extensive searches uncover firearms haul on Teesside
Police in Grangetown say they've uncovered a huge haul of guns and ammunition - after 8 days of searches in the area
Police in Grangetown say they've uncovered a huge haul of guns and ammunition - after 8 days of searching in the area.
Using specialist equipment and technology, including metal detectors, drones and forensic support, expert teams from Cleveland Police carried out a meticulous search, ensuring the safe removal and preservation of the weapons that were discovered.
The search area, located around Mannion Park in Grangetown, was secured on Thursday 22 January.
The subsequent investigation has been developed in support of Operation Galvanise, which is the Cleveland Police response to a community clear, hold and build approach with key partners.
The findings will be used to support ongoing complex investigations, which remain active and ongoing.
The search site boundaries will be removed today; however, a police presence will remain in the area to provide reassurance and to continue some minor search activity.
Assistant Chief Constable Wayne Fox, who led the operation, said:
“This is an extremely positive outcome in support of our efforts to keep people safe from harm.
“We have taken a significant number of weapons, which are capable of causing a fatality, off our streets. The use of any of these weapons would have been catastrophic. I have no doubt that their recovery has saved lives and disrupted criminal activity.
“The eight-day search has not been without challenge. The terrain has been difficult, and teams have worked through challenging winter weather.
“However, the dedicated approach of our specialist teams, the use of modern technology and national expertise, has ensured the search was both thorough and efficient. I would like to put on record my thanks to the officers and staff involved in the search, as well as our wider partners for their support.
My express gratitude goes out to the community of Grangetown. I recognise that the scale of police activity may have been concerning to residents, and I am very grateful for their understanding and patience during the last week.
“Operation Galvanise is community focussed and our relationship with people who live in the area is crucial in delivering continued success in tackling serious criminality.
“I hope the outcome of this policing activity demonstrates how seriously Cleveland Police treats the threat from the criminal use of firearms.
“We are committed to working with our communities, if you spot anything suspicious in the area, or have further information to share, it is vital that you tell us.
“We will act, as we have here, swiftly and robustly to safeguard people and bring offenders to justice”.
Emily Harrison, Redcar and Cleveland Superintendent, said:
“I would like to thank local communities for their patience and cooperation while this search has been ongoing.
“You will continue to see a visible police presence in the area to provide reassurance and engagement. If you have concerns, please speak directly to officers.
“The area that has been searched is privately owned, and excavation work has left the terrain dangerous in places. I ask that members of the public do not enter the search site until the landowner confirms it has been returned to a safe condition.”