Arrest made after reports of gun fire in Harlow
No injuries were reported and a suspect fled the scene.
A man has been arrested after a gun was reportedly fired in Harlow at the weekend.
It was reported the firearm was discharged in The Stow Playing Field between 3.45pm and 4pm on Saturday 14 June.
No injuries were reported and a suspect fled the scene.
Since then, detectives in our Serious and Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) have developed a picture of the incident, and on Monday 16 June arrested a 25-year-old man, from Harlow, on suspicion of possessing a firearm.
He has since been released on bail, with stringent conditions attached, while our investigation continues.
Sergeant Victoria Jarvis, of SOCU, said: “This weapon was fired in broad daylight in a public place.
“We fully understand the public’s concern about this incident and have moved quickly to make sure we made this arrest.”
Inspector Leanne Archer, of Harlow Neighbourhood Policing Team, added: “While thankfully no injuries were reported, I hope the public can see how seriously we are treating this matter.
“Any report involving weapons, from knives to the extremely rare incidents involving a firearm, will be treated as a priority.
“The investigative team has established this incident likely involved people known to each other and the ongoing wider threat to the people of Harlow is minimal.
“We’ll be supporting this investigation by ensuring we are staying visible in Harlow, engaging with businesses and residents to offer reassurance.
“Please approach my officers if you have any concerns or information which could help us.”
Anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident, or anyone with information which could assist police, is being urged to come forward.