Police line

Police called to Swift Crescent and Defiant Close on Saturday

Police continue to hunt the person responsible for a major alert in Chatham yesterday after a man was spotted with a gun.

But it says it does not believe there is not specific threat to the public.

Officers were called to the Swift Crescent and Defiant Close area of Chatham shortly after 2pm on Saturday after reports of a man with a firearm were received.

They conducted a full search of the area, including using the police helicopter in the search. Roads around the area were closed and residents and the public advised to avoid the area while the incident was ongoing.

Police have now completed these searches and the roads have been re-opened.

A police spokesman said: “Officers are still searching for a man.

“This incident does not seem to suggest any specific threat to the general public as those involved appear to have known each other.

“However, Kent Police are concerned to ensure that the offender is captured at the earliest opportunity to reduce any risk posed and would encourage the man to hand himself in to the nearest police station as soon as possible.”

Local neighbourhood police officers remain in the Lordswood area and will be speaking to local resident about any concerns they may have and to get any further witnesses or information.

Chief Inspector Iain Mackenzie, said: “We want to thank the public and local residents in Chatham for their patience while we dealt with this incident.

“I would like to reassure people that we are actively searching for a man at this time but we do not believe there is a specific threat to the general public. If anyone has any concerns, then please speak with the local neighbourhood officers who will be patrolling the area tonight or call Kent Police on 101.”

Anyone who has any information about this incident should call 101 quoting reference 04-0860.