Armed police responded to a situation on City Road in Walton, Liverpool, this afternoon after receiving reports of a man allegedly carrying a firearm. Merseyside Police were alerted to the scene around 2.50pm following information that three men were engaged in a dispute, with one of them reportedly in possession of a gun.
Upon arrival, armed officers took control of the situation, resulting in the detention of a man and the recovery of an imitation firearm. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident.
According to a local resident who witnessed the events, there was a commotion involving shouting around 3pm, followed by the swift arrival of armed police units, which quickly resolved the situation.
A 48-year-old man from the Walton area has been taken into custody on suspicion of various charges, including possessing an offensive weapon in a private place, having an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear, and involvement in affray. He is currently being held for questioning by the authorities.
Authorities are actively searching for the other two individuals believed to have been part of the altercation. Merseyside Police emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to public safety related to this incident.
Chief Inspector Andy Foster highlighted the importance of public cooperation in tackling such situations, noting that even imitation firearms can instill fear and endanger individuals. Foster urged community members to report any relevant information to ensure the safety of law-abiding citizens in areas affected by gun-related incidents.
A road closure that was put in place has now been reopened, restoring normalcy to the area.
