Essex: Man Arrested After Supermarket Siege

15 May 2012, 10:06 | Updated: 15 May 2012, 10:09

An Essex man has been arrested by Sussex police after he locked himself in a supermarket toilet claiming to have a gun and bomb.

The stand off at Sainsbury's in Lewes Road in Brighton started at 2.15pm and lasted five and half hours yesterday afternoon (Monday May 14th).

The store was evacuated and closed while specialist negotiators engaged with the man. 

Just before 8pm officers gained entry to the toilet and the 46-year-old was arrested. No weapon or explosives were found.

Chief Inspector Helen West from Brighton neighbourhood response team said: "While officers were not able to confirm whether he had a firearm or any form of explosive device until the last few minutes, they continued to talk to him and tried to establish what his concerns were.

"I should like to thank both the staff and customers of the store who reacted quickly to enable my officers to carry out their negotiations in a calm and quiet atmosphere. Also, colleagues in the fire and ambulance services who stood by throughout in support of the operation."

A 46-year-old man from Essex was arrested in connection with making threats to commit criminal damage.