Two arrested after reports of suspected firearm in Carlisle centre
Police have issued a warning against speculating on social media
Two men have been arrested after reports of a suspected firearm in Carlisle city centre.
Police were called to English Street at around 3.40pm on Tuesday 9 June following reports of a man carrying what was thought to be a gun wrapped in a plastic bag.
Nobody was threatened or injured, no weapon was fired, and police say there's no wider threat to the public.
Armed officers were deployed and searches were carried out across the city centre and Botchergate throughout the evening and into the night.
Police later arrested two men, aged 22 and 23, who remain in custody as investigations continue.
Police say a glass smoking device wrapped in plastic was found and is believed to have been mistaken for a firearm.
Anyone with information on the incident is being urged to call 101 quoting log 166 of 9 June.
"I can confirm there were no counter terrorism police on the streets."
Inspector Andy Leather, who leads the Carlisle neighbourhood police team, said: “Last night there was a lot of speculation on social media but I’d like to put some of the rumours to bed. I can confirm there were no counter terrorism police on the streets. Our armed officers look quite formidable and I can understand how people may get this confused, but I can confirm that was not the case.
“There were also rumours of a knife incident in a city centre premises. We did not receive any such report.
“The glass smoking device, wrapped in plastic, had the appearance of potentially being a firearm, so we exercise all necessary caution and prioritise such an incident.
“We appreciate the concern in the community but would always urge people not to speculate on social media during enquiries so as not to impede any enquiries or cause concern in the community."