Suspected Firearm In Colchester

31 July 2014, 06:13 | Updated: 31 July 2014, 06:34

Police used taser and baton rounds in Colchester yesterday - after a suspected air weapon was discovered.

Police attended at an address in Dugard Avenue yesterday afternoon following concern for the welfare of a man.

Officers and mental health professionals entered the house but withdrew after a possible firearm was seen.

The area was cordoned off and additional police resources were called. Shortly after 6.30pm a 43 year old man was arrested at the scene and has been taken to Colchester Police Station for questioning. A suspected air weapon has been recovered.

Chief Superintendent Luke Collison said, "A suspected air weapon has been recovered and it is believed to have been discharged several times at police officers and police vehicles.

"Attempts were made to negotiate before firearms officers used taser and baton rounds to respond and bring the incident to a safe conclusion for all concerned.

"Considering the significant risk that officers faced I can only admire the considerable restraint used to resolve a situation that was in danger of escalating - with the potential for serious injury and harm."