Armed police called after man allegedly threatened with a firearm

Spotting a helicopter in the air tends to generate a lot of social media attention, and this was certainly the case last night in SO45. Police have since provided an update into the situation.

They were called to Cosworth Drive shortly before 8pm yesterday to reports of an altercation in the street. It had been alleged that a man had been verbally abused and then threatened with a firearm. The man with the firearm then fled the scene in a car.

Armed response officers and the National Police Air Service were deployed, and after initial enquiries were made, they tracked down the vehicle, along with the driver. He was at a property in The Marsh, Hythe.

The police have now confirmed that a 38 year old male from Hythe was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He was also arrested on possession of a Class B drug.  He currently remains in custody.  

Following the incident,  police have increased their presence in the area. They’ll also continue to do so over the coming days. 

If anyone does have any concerns or issues, the police would welcome you stopping them to have those conversations.

At this time, the police believe there was no intention to harm the general public. However, they’ll continue to be visible just to be on the safe side, and to offer reassurance.