Seven arrested after armed police swoop
SEVEN people were arrested after armed police swooped on an estate on Monday night.
Firearms officers were scrambled to the Freehold area shortly after 7pm following reports someone had been threatened with a gun.
When they arrived, they discovered several people were carrying ‘apparent firearms’, a GMP spokesman said.
Five men and two women were arrested.
Officers also seized a Kia Picanto car, several knives and an imitation firearm.
Video footage showed the force helicopter hovering above Tweedale Street and the surrounding area, which is close to several blocks of flats and a basketball court.
At least five patrol cars, a police dog and handler and armed officers can also be seen in the mobile phone clip.
A cordon was quickly put in place around the court and part of a road close to Khubsuret House and the Ronald Gorton Centre, off Tweedale Street.
The incident drew huge crowds of onlookers to the area and several residents, including more than a dozen teenagers, were still at the scene at around 10.30pm.
Five men, aged 18, 19, 19, 19 and 21 were arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear and possession of an offensive weapon.
Two women aged 20 and 25 were arrested on suspicion of possession of a bladed article.
Chief Insp Nick Hill said: “We have seven people in custody and will be questioning them throughout the day to gain a fuller picture of what happened yesterday evening.
“By taking this swift and proactive action, I hope it sends a message that putting people in fear of their lives is not something we are prepared to tolerate.
“Everyone should feel safe going about their daily lives but in the event you do not feel safe, please contact us at your earliest opportunity.”
He continued: “There are a number of officers who will remain in the area and I’d encourage anyone with any concerns relating to this incident to speak to them or alternatively, call 101.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 8655 or 101 quoting reference number 2168 of 12/06/17 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.