Knife-Wielding Man Terrorises Asda Shoppers at Gunpoint
On the evening of November 19, 2020, 22-year-old Mantas Auryla sparked chaos at an Asda store. Around 9pm, terrified customers dialled 999, reporting he threatened them with a knife.
Rapid Police Response After Panic Calls
Police call handlers stayed cool under pressure, calmly guiding panicked shoppers while dispatching armed officers immediately. The store was swiftly evacuated to guarantee safety.
Newly released footage from January 11, 2021, captures officers bursting into the deserted store searching for Auryla. They quickly found and disarmed him before arresting him on site.
Sentenced to 18 Months – No Injuries Reported
Auryla now faces two charges: carrying a bladed article in a public place and public affray. This month he was sentenced to 18 months behind bars.
Remarkably, no one was hurt during the dramatic stand-off.
Police Praise Staff and Officers For Heroic Efforts
“This was terrifying. We didn’t know what Auryla’s motives were,” said Lead Investigator DC Katy Tyrrell. “I pay tribute to Asda staff for safely evacuating customers and to our officers for their swift, brave response.”
Chief Constable Nick Adderley added, “This footage shows our officers’ courage as they head into danger to protect the public. Incidents like this are rare, but our force is always ready to act fast and decisively.”
“DC Katy Tyrrell’s thorough investigation left Auryla no choice but to plead guilty,” the Chief Constable concluded.
Police also conducted a full sweep of the supermarket to rule out any other threats after the arrest.
