Three arrests made as Sidley disturbance investigations continue

Police appeals for information following discharge of firearm and two incidents

Author: Vicky HainesPublished 10 hours ago

Three arrests have been made as detectives continue to investigate a disturbance in Sidley, Bexhill, that involved the discharge of a firearm, followed by a related collision near Hastings.

The disturbance occurred on Sidley Green at around 11.50pm on 8th June, when a firearm was reportedly discharged.

A vehicle linked to the incident was later involved in a collision on Ivyhouse Lane, north of Hastings, in the early hours of 9th June.

As investigations proceed, officers have arrested a 21-year-old man from Hellingly on charges of possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and racially aggravated harassment of a police officer.

A 40-year-old man from Bexhill has also been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, with both individuals currently in police custody.

Additionally, an 18-year-old man from Bexhill has been arrested for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possessing a firearm without a certificate, and possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs.

The 18-year-old has been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Four men previously arrested in connection with the collision have also seen developments in their cases.

A 36-year-old man has been de-arrested, while a 26-year-old man remains under arrest.

A 21-year-old has been bailed and a 23-year-old remains in custody.

T/Detective Superintendent Jay Mendis-Gunasekera said: "This remains an active and complex investigation, and officers continue to carry out extensive enquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding these incidents.

"We recognise this incident will understandably have caused concern within the local community. Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while enquiries continue, and we are committed to identifying everyone involved and bringing those responsible before the courts.

"Our investigation is progressing at pace, but we are still keen to hear from anyone who has information that could assist us. We would particularly like to hear from anyone who witnessed the disturbance in Sidley Green, saw the vehicles involved travelling between Bexhill and Hastings, or has CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or mobile phone footage from either incident.

"No piece of information is too small. Even if you are unsure whether what you saw is significant, please get in touch as it could prove vital to our enquiries."

Police are urging those with relevant information, including any witnesses to the disturbance, or any footage from the incidents, to come forward.

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.