Seven men have been arrested and drugs, £15,000 in cash and a Mercedes seized as police continue an investigation into suspected organised crime in Middlesbrough.

The latest arrests come as Cleveland Police continues what it has described as a crackdown on suspected organised criminals, with 24 arrests now made since the investigation began.

At around 5.30am on Wednesday (Aug 26), a caravan was set alight on Atlee Road in Middlesbrough.

Police said an arson offence being investigated relates to that incident.

The scene at Steele Crescent, South Bank, as police are investigating reports of a vehicle crashing into a wall at a house near Middlesbrough.

placeholder image — The scene at Steele Crescent, South Bank, as police are investigating reports of a vehicle crashing into a wall at a house near Middlesbrough.

Officers are also investigating criminal damage with intent to endanger life in relation to an incident on Steele Crescent in Middlesbrough.

Three men, aged 23, 42 and 30, were arrested as part of the investigation.

The 23-year-old was arrested on suspicion of threats to kill, while the 42-year-old was arrested on suspicion of threats to kill and possession of criminal property.

The 30-year-old was arrested on suspicion of possession of criminal property.

Police also seized £15,000 in cash.

All three men have since been released on conditional bail.

At around 10.30pm on Thursday (Aug 27), police stopped a vehicle on Kingsley Road in Grangetown.

Four men, aged 35, 25, 40 and 21, who were inside the vehicle were arrested.

They remain in police custody to be questioned on suspicion of criminal damage with intent to endanger life, arson and possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.

Police also seized a quantity of suspected Class A drugs and the Mercedes.

The arson investigation relates to the caravan fire on Atlee Road, while the criminal damage with intent to endanger life investigation relates to Steele Crescent.

Assistant Chief Constable Wayne Fox said: “This latest disruptive activity now brings the total number of arrests to 24 since the investigation commenced.

“Three of those arrested throughout the course of this week have been charged with serious offences and two men have been recalled to prison.

“This robust approach demonstrates our commitment and determination to pursue those who we believe are intent on causing serious violence and harm to our communities.

“Be assured, our relentless pursuit of suspected organised criminals will not waver.

“I want to encourage anyone who believes serious violence and organised crime is taking place in their neighbourhood to report it so we can keep on taking action.”