Armed police called to firearms incident in Newport
Armed response officers from West Mercia Police attended a property in Upper Bar in Newport this afternoon after a call was received at 1pm that raised concerns a man in a property may have been in possession of a firearm.
Officers placed a cordon around the property to ensure the public’s safety. During the operation, officers deployed an attenuating energy projectile and a man was struck by the projectile.
The 29-year-old received medical attention for minor bruising and was arrested for a public order offence. He was taken into custody and is currently being held at Malinsgate Police Station.
Deputy Chief Constable Karen Manners said: “In dealing with a difficult scenario, armed officers appropriately deployed a ‘less lethal’ option to resolve the situation and it has led to the safe detention of the man involved.
“An investigation is now ongoing at the scene and we would like to appeal to any witnesses who may have information to contact West Mercia Police straightway.
“I would like to reassure Newport residents, and in particular those living and working in the Upper Bar area, that there was no danger to the public at any time during this incident.”
West Mercia Police can be contacted via the non-emergency police number 101 or information can be passed on anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers (0800 555 111 or via their website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org). Please quote the reference number 252s 28/01/14.
