School issues safeguarding message to parents as large police incident takes place in Stockton

Armed and unarmed officers were at the scene. Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

A primary school in Stockton sent a safeguarding message to parents as a police incident took place nearby.

Tilery Primary School in the Portrack area of the town contacted parents and guardians this morning (28 March) to ask for all children to be taken to the main hall.

Durham Constabulary and Cleveland Police carried out a series of warrants at addresses in the area, arresting three people.

Armed and unarmed police were involved in the activity as part of an ongoing operation, as well as specialist search officers and the dog section.

Just after 8am, the school on St Ann's Terrace posted on social media: "Due to an ongoing police incident on the Portrack estate, if your child is coming to school, can you please take them to the main hall."

Cordons remain in place. Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

Two hours later, the school updated parents, thanking them for their understanding and saying that children were back in classes.

The post on social media said: "THANK YOU to all parents, carers and families for your patience and understanding this morning.The safety of our children, staff and community is our highest priority and we followed our safeguarding procedures to ensure this.

"Children are now back in classes and we will keep you updated on the situation."

Durham Constabulary confirmed three people were arrested as part of an investigation to disrupt drug gangs across the region. Last week, 11 other arrests were made as part of the same operation.

In a statement about the activity, the force said: "Shortly after 7am, this morning officers from Durham Constabulary and Cleveland Police descended on four addresses in the Stockton area.

"They were assisted by teams from the National Crime Agency and the North-East Regional Organised Crime Unit.

"Three men were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and participating in the activities of an organised crime group. They remain in custody.

"Today’s activity sends a clear message that organised crime has no place in our region, and we are committed to pursuing those that operate within these networks."

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