Suspect being chased by police threw phone into river tyne before arrest

THE 58-YEAR-OLD MAN WAS BROUGHT INTO CUSTODY AFTER WATCHING HIS DEVICE BE FISHED FROM THE WATER JUST MINUTES LATER 18:57, 30 May 2025 Northumbria Police officers working on Operation Impact

in South Tyneside A man suspected of drug-related crime who tried to dispose of evidence by throwing his phone into the River Tyne has been arrested. The 58-year-old was brought into custody

after watching his device be fished out, just minutes after he flung it into the water. As part of Operation Impact in South Tyneside, on Wednesday, May 28, Northumbria Police carried

simultaneously executed two morning warrants in Jarrow, believed to be linked to suspected drug-dealing. However, when officers entered the properties, they discovered that the suspect was

not present at either address, but officers from the Firearms Support Unit spotted a white Vauxhall, known to belong to the individual, driving between the properties just minutes later. The

suspect led the pursuing officers to the banks of the River Tyne, and jumped out of the vehicle to throw his phone into the water. However, officers from the Marine Unit were moments away

from the scene, and quickly began searching for the discarded electronic, assisted by one of the drone pilots. Article continues below It was discovered buried underwater in muddy sludge,

and given to specialist digital forensic officers, with the man then being arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs and transported to custody. He has since

been released on police bail, and several discoveries were made at both addresses, including suspected criminal cash, cocaine, and weapons. Four vehicles connected to the individual were

also seized, including the white Vauxhall. Chief Inspector Alan Pitchford, of Northumbria Police’s Operations Department, said: "This arrest truly demonstrates everything that

Northumbria Police has at its disposal, and how we can all come together to get results. "From the officers who executed the warrants, to the firearms support officers who spotted the

vehicle they were after, to the drone pilot who were there to assist, and then finally the marine officers who trawled through the mud and recovered the device, everyone’s role is equally

crucial. "We’re lucky to have so many specialist officers across the force who pursue those who we believe to be involved in criminality, and it’s during instances like these that they

truly shine. We had another brilliant day of action here in South Tyneside on Wednesday, and certainly got results from our hard work. "Operation Impact is all about listening to our

communities, and tackling the issues that matter most to them – whether that is serious crime, drug supply or anti-social behaviour. Please know that we’re listening and taking action.

"This certainly won’t be the end of our proactive approach, and we’ll continue to work with residents, businesses and our partners to crackdown on criminality." Article continues

below Anyone who has concerns about crime in their area can send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use the live chat function and report forms on the website here. Those

who are unable to contact police in those ways are asked to call 101, and in an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always dial 999. JOIN OUR BREAKING NEWS AND TOP STORIES WHATSAPP

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