POLICE discovered a sizeable haul of drugs and £4,000 in cash after stopping a suspected dealer and searching his house.

Drug squad officers from Essex Police’s Operation Raptor team were on patrol in Hythe Hill, Colchester, on Tuesday.

A man was stopped and searched because he was thought to be acting suspiciously.

He was found to be in possession of class A drugs.

Subsequently, his home was searched and what is believed to be more drugs - including a significant amount of cannabis - was found.

They also found approximately £4,000 worth of cash which police believe is the proceeds of dealing.

Class A drugs were also found.

A spokesman for Essex Police said they were focused on targeting dealers who bring misery to the streets.

He said: “Proactive patrolling in Colchester resulted in a man being stopped and searched.

“A quantity of drugs was located on the man.

“This led to a search of the man’s home address where a large amount of class A and class B drugs were found along with around £4,000.

“We will continue to make our streets safer for our residents.”

The spokesman confirmed the 21-year-old man who was arrested has since been released while their investigation into the drugs continued.

“He was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs and has been released under investigation while we continue our inquiries,” he added.

Anyone with information about suspected drug dealing in their neighbourhood should call Essex Police on 101.

Reports can also be submitted online at essex.police.uk if the situation is not life-threatening.

Details can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or by using the form on the independent charity’s website at crimestoppers-uk.org.