Guns and ammunition found in Grangetown woodland search

The search, carried out by specialist Cleveland Police teams in Grangetown, started on Thursday, January 22 and concluded on Friday, January 30.

Using metal detectors, drones and forensic support, expert officers carried out what police described as a meticulous search of the area to safely remove and preserve the weapons found.

A significant amount of guns and ammunition in a search of woodland in Grangetown following an eight day operation (Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)

The findings will now support ongoing complex investigations, which remain active.

Assistant Chief Constable Wayne Fox, who led the operation, said: “This is an extremely positive outcome in support of our efforts to keep people safe from harm.

A significant amount of guns and ammunition in a search of woodland in Grangetown following an eight day operation (Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)

“We have taken a significant number of weapons, which are capable of causing a fatality, off our streets. The use of any of these weapons would have been catastrophic. I have no doubt that their recovery has saved lives and disrupted criminal activity.

“The eight-day search has not been without challenge. The terrain has been difficult, and teams have worked through challenging winter weather.

“However, the dedicated approach of our specialist teams, the use of modern technology and national expertise, has ensured the search was both thorough and efficient. I would like to put on record my thanks to the officers and staff involved in the search, as well as our wider partners for their support.”

A significant amount of guns and ammunition in a search of woodland in Grangetown following an eight day operation (Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)

He added: “My express gratitude goes out to the community of Grangetown. I recognise that the scale of police activity may have been concerning to residents, and I am very grateful for their understanding and patience during the last week.

“Operation Galvanise is community focussed and our relationship with people who live in the area is crucial in delivering continued success in tackling serious criminality.

“I hope the outcome of this policing activity demonstrates how seriously Cleveland Police treats the threat from the criminal use of firearms.

“We are committed to working with our communities, if you spot anything suspicious in the area, or have further information to share, it is vital that you tell us.

“We will act, as we have here, swiftly and robustly to safeguard people and bring offenders to justice”.

A significant amount of guns and ammunition in a search of woodland in Grangetown following an eight day operation (Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)

Police confirmed the search site boundaries will be removed on Friday, though officers will remain in the area to provide reassurance and carry out minor additional searches.

Emily Harrison, Redcar and Cleveland Superintendent, said: “I would like to thank local communities for their patience and cooperation while this search has been ongoing.

“You will continue to see a visible police presence in the area to provide reassurance and engagement. If you have concerns, please speak directly to officers.

“The area that has been searched is privately owned, and excavation work has left the terrain dangerous in places. I ask that members of the public do not enter the search site until the landowner confirms it has been returned to a safe condition.”

It was conducted as part of Operation Galvanise, the force’s community clear, hold and build approach to tackling serious criminality.