Armed Gang Sparks Lockdown in Eastbourne After Attempted Shop Heist
Police have sealed off Etchingham Road in Eastbourne tonight following a dramatic attempted armed robbery at the Best One convenience store. A gang of men, reportedly armed with baseball bats and a firearm, tried to hold up the shop in the seaside town.
Armed Police and Helicopter Swarm Scene
Armed officers, backed by the National Police Air Support helicopter from Redhill, flooded the area. Etchingham Road remains cordoned off as officers deal with the tense standoff.
Hostile Suspects Take Shelter Above Shop
A witness living in Hampshire Court, just above the store, spotted five men barricaded inside a flat. “I could hear the police helicopter hovering all evening,” they said. “Police have told us to stay indoors and keep away from windows. They said they’ve got the situation under control.”
One Man Arrested After Armed Standoff
The police removed one man from a flat in nearby Langney following the stand-off with armed officers. The drama kicked off after 8pm when a group carrying bats and what looked like a gun were seen entering the flats. Police are urging locals to remain inside as the incident remains contained.
