Cleveland Police have launched a summer-long operation, which has already resulted in arrests.

Police officers arrested three people yesterday, (Tuesday, July 7), as they launched Operation Phoenix - a summer long operation to improve public service, prioritise vulnerability, tackle serious violence and prevent crime.

In Stockton, three arrests were made following stop and searches on The Green in Thornaby.

READ MORE: Three men arrested for drug offences in Thornaby

Officers targeted addresses in Middlesbrough where they suspected drugs activity and associated crime was taking place.

An early morning raid in Kelvin Grove in Berwick Hills saw officers recover suspected cannabis and prescription drugs.

A vulnerable, exploited male was discovered in the house and he is now being safeguarded.

The activity involved neighbourhood policing team officers, the Operational Support Unit and the Dog Unit and officers remained in the areas to provide reassurance to the community, gather intelligence and engage with members of the public.

Chief Supt Thom McLoughlin said: “This was a good day’s work with three people arrested on suspicion of drugs activity and a vulnerable and exploited person safeguarded.

“Under Operation Phoenix our focus is on those who persist in committing serious crime in our communities, and on safeguarding vulnerable victims.

“More days of action will follow over the following months. We’re acting on intelligence gathered by specialist officers as well as information passed to us by members of the public and we are grateful for their on-going support.”