A man has been arrested after more packages of suspected cocaine were found washed up on the South Coast.

Hampshire police said it suspects suspicious packages, which washed up in Chale, Isle of Wight, on Friday, October 13, had been opened and moved from the beach.

Officers were alerted by a member of public on Sunday, October 15.

A 57-year-old man from Ryde who was arrested for being concerned in the supply of drugs has now been bailed until January 15.

Meanwhile, a major investigation is underway after holdalls filled with what is believed to be cocaine were found by a fisherman near St Aldhelm’s Point and Durdle Door on October 2.

The National Crime Agency (NCA) thinks such a “significant amount of class A drugs” would have come from South America.

On Saturday, October 14, a boat was seized in Yarmouth and three men were arrested on suspicion of drug dealing. They were later bailed.

Police are yet to confirm whether the recent Isle of Wight incident is linked to the NCA operation, which is being supported by Border Force, Dorset Police and Hampshire police.

NCA senior investigating officer Tracey Lake said that such a big loss would be a significant hit to the criminal networks involved.

Speaking earlier this month, temporary deputy chief constable Rachel Farrell, of Dorset Police, said: “Searches remain ongoing and I would ask anyone who finds a holdall or similar package in suspect circumstances to please not touch the item, but contact Dorset Police immediately.

“We remain committed to joining forces with our partner agencies to relentlessly pursue criminals and organised gangs suspected of being involved in drug supply offences so that we can keep the public safe.”

Assistant chief constable for Hampshire police, Stuart Murray, said: "Anyone who does locate any suspicious packages should call 999, with our call handlers able to provide further advice."

He stressed that the force "will continue to do all we can to protect the safety of our communities across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and make life as difficult as possible for those taking part in criminal activity."