Scores of drug-taking revellers are being caught trying to sneak illegal substances into bars and nightclubs. Nearly 30 people every month are being arrested in Newcastle city centre after being caught in possession of drugs by door staff. And police are fighting back by sending sniffer dogs out on weekend nights to probe party-goers they suspect of having substances on them. The Chronicle joined officers as they took the dogs out for the first time and toured popular nightspots, including the Gate, Times Square and the Bigg Market. [continues 513 words]
Smugglers are targeting the North East to try and sneak heroin and cocaine into the country. Yesterday, we told how a cocaine blizzard was sweeping across the North East, with prices dropping dramatically. Today, we lift the lid on the crooks trying to bring the deadly drugs into the region. The Chronicle spent a day undercover with HM Revenue & Customs at the Tyne Commission Quay ferry terminal, in North Shields. Officers told of their daily battle against villains who go to great lengths to conceal their killer drugs. [continues 960 words]
