Armed response team called out after gun reports (From Warrington Guardian)

Armed response team called out after gun reports

ARMED police officers were called to Winsford town centre on Monday morning after two teenagers were spotted by members of the public waving a gun.

Police armed response vehicles arrived at the service area behind B&M shortly after 9am and arrested two boys aged 16 and 14 on suspicion of possessing an imitation firearm.

The 16-year-old was later released without charge but the 14-year-old was bailed until March 9. Det Sgt Dave Snasdell, from Winsford Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: "One of the youths was seen by members of the public walking through the Drumber waving a BB gun and pointing it at buses and people.

"Police were called and the armed response vehicles attended to deal with the incident.

"This is standard procedure when we receive a call of this nature. The boys were then arrested and taken to the police station for questioning."

Det Sgt Snasdell is urging parents not to allow their children out with imitation firearms following the alleged incident.

He said: "It's very important for parents with children who have BB guns to be aware of the serious consequences of their children going out with them in a public place.

"Not only do they put fear into members of the public who see kids waving a gun but it could have serious consequences with police attending with firearms to deal with the incident.

"Members of the public who see someone waving a gun don't know whether it is an imitation firearm or not and when we receive a call we have to send the armed response vehicles so it is a very serious matter."