More than 200 people have been arrested for crimes such as attempted murder and conspiracy to supply class A drugs as police clamp down on gang-related activity.
Northumbria Police officers have made 211 arrests, executed 48 warrants and seized class A drugs under Operation Pecan.
The operation aims to tackle knife crime, reduce serious violence and disrupt the criminal gangs involved.
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Since its inception towards the end of last year:
- 24 people aged between 17 and 56 charged with offences ranging from attempted murder and conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, to money laundering and driving offences.
- A number of vulnerable teens at risk of exploitation have also been identified, with officers referring 123 young people to support services.
- A new team has also been set up to pursue offenders and to closely monitor the activity of gangs.
Chief Superintendent Helena Barron, the force's lead for Serious youth violence and knife crime, said Northumbria Police "absolutely does not tolerate" gang-related criminality, knife crime or serious violence.
She said: "These are societal issues, which happen across the country, which we must all come together to tackle.
"We know that this type of criminality has the potential to ruin our communities and the lives of the young people recruited into it and this is why, with the help of partners, we are building on our activity in this area.
"Since the launch of our latest initiative we have seen some incredible results which speak for themselves – but we are not complacent and will continue to work relentlessly to pursue offenders and protect our communities."
Chief Supt Barron said the arrests, convictions, seizures and child protection notices help Northumbria Police to build-up a more detailed picture of exactly what is happening on streets across the North East.
She said that by sharing the information with their partners, including local authorities, the Violence Reduction Unit, and wider criminal justice system, they are helping to ensure they are tackling this type of criminal activity from every available angle.
She said: "What is really important about this operation is that it puts those at the centre of this criminality before the courts, as well as identifying those on the fringes and shows them an alternative path by putting them in touch with services best placed to help divert them from falling into a life of crime.
"I also want to deliver a message to young people involved in this type of activity that there is a way out. Even if you feel like there isn’t an alternative for you, we want you to know there is – help and support is available for those who choose to take that step.
"I would also urge anyone with any information about gang-related activity to come forward, share what you know with us, so we can take positive action – together we can make a difference and keep our communities safe."
Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness said the positive proactive approach by the force, prioritising both prevention and enforcement, is exactly what communities want to see in our response to serious youth violence.
She said: "We will always try to engage and educate young people on the dangers that this lifestyle brings – whether that’s through our funded youth work or my Violence Reduction Unit in schools and the wider community.
"However, when these warnings are ignored and harm is brought to people and our neighbourhoods, swift robust action will follow.
"Our region absolutely stands against criminality of any kind, but especially the sort that has brought such devastation to families in recent months.
"The force has my full backing and support as they continue to disrupt and make their presence known amongst those perpetrating harm in Northumberland, Tyne & Wear."
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