‘Significant’ recovery of firearms following search of woodland in Norton

From 7pm on Friday 1 August, officers alongside partners agencies set up a large scene around woodlands near South Road to commence a search.

Over four days, officers successfully recovered three firearms alongside a quantity of ammunition, suspected class A drugs and a quantity of cash.

Two men have been arrested in relation to the firearms.

T/Superintendent Stuart Hodgson, Cleveland Police’s lead for the investigation, said: “I know this large policing presence will have caused concern and raised questions within the community, and I therefore want to provide an update on what it involved.

“This activity took place as soon as the information was provided to the force. A cordon was immediately put in place to protect the public and for officers to conduct a safe and thorough search of the area.

“What followed over the next four days was the significant recovery of three firearms, a quantity of drugs and a quantity of cash.

“I want assure members of the public that we will continue to pursue those who are intent on being involved in this criminality.”

If you have information that is linked to serious and organised crime, please report it to Cleveland Police by calling 101.

Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.