Youths 'possibly carrying knives' seen near Byfleet school
The school went into lockdown as a precautionary measure yesterday afternoon
Surrey Police have issued an update following reports youths, possibly carrying knives, were seen near a school in Byfleet.
Officers were called just before 3pm on Thursday (15 May) following reports of youths seen in a car near St Mary’s School in Rectory Lane.
A spokesperson for the force said: " While they were seen near the school, we would like to reassure you that we do not believe that the school was involved or connected to this incident in any way, and that there was no risk to the safety of the children at the school.
"The school took the step of implementing their lockdown procedure as a precautionary measure and this was in place for just under an hour."
Officers tried to locate the car and those involved and enquiries into this incident are continuing. No arrests have been made.
"We understand that this afternoon’s events will be distressing for the local community, and we will have extra officers out on patrol in the area at school pick-up and drop-off times tomorrow to provide reassurance. If you have any concerns, please do speak to one of our officers.
We are aware that there is footage circulating on social media of the incident, and we would encourage anyone with any dashcam or CCTV footage, or anyone who witnessed what happened, or can provide further information about the car and the identities of those involved, to get in touch with us straightaway."