Massive Police Raid Sparks Chaos in Folkestone Street at Dawn
More than ten police vehicles, backed by armed officers and a helicopter, swarmed a Folkestone street in the early hours of Thursday morning, plunging the area into total lockdown. The dramatic operation kicked off around 1am on New Street.
Residents Describe ‘World War Three’ Wake-Up Call
Locals were left shaken by the chaos, with one resident telling us, “It sounded like World War Three. The police wouldn’t say what was going on—we were pretty scared.” Shouting echoed through the street as officers tried to coax someone out of a surrounded building.
The standoff lasted for hours, with police in shields and armed with firearms arriving on scene. A large police van later drove off with a detainee, while two men were arrested and taken into custody from a block of flats on the corner of New Road next to a guitar shop.
Fire Brigade Join The Fray as Police Hold Standoff
Kent Fire and Rescue rolled in with a fire engine and a high-reach vehicle to support officers. The standoff intensified, with police surrounding the building and tasers drawn. Neighbours were told to stay inside as the tense situation unfolded.
A local cab driver on night shift said: “It all looked pretty heavy. I saw two men cuffed and arrested, then shoved into the back of a police van.”
Armoured Cars, Helicopter & Fire Engines Flood the Area
- One unmarked BMW X5 and two marked X5s
- Four police Astra estates
- Police helicopter hovering overhead
- Two fire engines, including one with a long ladder
All the action centred around New Street and Bradstone Road from about 1:30am. Police presence remained strong even as early risers began their day.
Police Confirm Raid Linked to Robbery and Disturbance
Kent Police confirmed: “We were called at around 1am to reports of a robbery and disturbance in the Bradstone Road area of Folkestone. Patrols and armed officers attended a property where two men were found on the roof while several others tried to flee.”
“Kent Fire and Rescue helped us retrieve the men from the roof. A thorough search followed, supported by the National Police Air Service helicopter. Ten people were arrested. Inquiries are ongoing.”
