A SUSPECTED teenage drug dealer was arrested in Yate after he was seen acting suspiciously.

An off-duty police officer first spotted the young man in the Halifax Road area shortly before midday on Sunday, April 23.

He kept the teenager in view until on-duty colleagues PC Angharad Baynham and PCSO Sadie Bignell arrived on scene and conducted a stop and search.

They seized 51 wraps of suspected class A drugs and arrested the young man on suspicion of possession with intent to supply.

A 17-year-old was later released under investigation pending further enquiries including tests of the seized substance.

Neighbourhood Sergeant Terry Murphy commended the officers involved in the arrest.

He said: “Our officers are committed to tackling crime whenever they see it.

"We know the impact drug dealing can have on the wider community, as well as drug users, their family and friends.

“Drug dealing can bring issues with people coming and going day and night, anti-social behaviour, litter and other crime."

He added that the police always want to hear from anyone who suspects unusual activity or crime.

He said: "You can tell us through our online form or by calling 101.”

Anyone who does not want to speak to the police directly can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.