Armed Police Swarm Portsmouth Property, Man Detained
Armed police sealed off streets in Portsmouth today as they raided a property in New Road. The dramatic operation unfolded shortly after lunchtime, ending with a man detained inside the home.
Neighbours Left Stunned by Armed Raid
Social media buzz linked the swoop to a recent hammer attack on Shearer Road, but police have dashed those rumours. Neighbours watched in shock as officers, dogs and weapons surrounded the building.
“I was just leaving the property when I saw a woman crying,” said 19-year-old Jack Fitzjohn, who lives next door. “She said the man had thrown her out. Then, as I went back, police with guns and dogs blocked the entrance. They told me I couldn’t go inside. It was scary, but they seemed in control.”
His girlfriend, Ewelina Dalek, added: “I could hear the police outside shouting for the man to open the door. They told me to stay inside. The last resident was taken away earlier, but the current occupant keeps to himself and has only been there about three months.”
Police Link Incident to Drugs and Firearms
Ms Dalek said officers visited recently searching for the man. “I think it’s to do with drugs and a gun. We just try to keep ourselves to ourselves.” Luckily, no injuries were reported during the tense stand-off.
Roads Reopen as Search Continues
All surrounding roads, including Kingston Road and New Road, have now reopened with traffic back to normal. Police remain on site, searching two properties.
A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police spokesman confirmed: “One man was detained at a North End residential address this lunchtime and taken to Portsmouth Central Police Station. He remains in custody.”
