Merseyside Police have arrested a second teenager in connection with a shooting at a Toxteth café. The 19-year-old man was detained following a warrant executed on Wednesday, November 11 at an address in Toxteth.
The arrest relates to an incident on Friday, June 19, when officers were called to Lodge Lane at around 5pm after someone opened fire inside Bala Bs Soul Food Kitchen. A man in his 20s was later found with a gunshot wound, received medical treatment, and was released from hospital.
Warrant Leads to Further Arrest
The 19-year-old was arrested on suspicion of possession of ammunition for a firearm without a certificate and has been conditionally bailed pending further inquiries. During a search of the property, officers also found £14,000 in cash, leading to the arrest of a 57-year-old man on suspicion of possession of criminal property. He has been bailed pending further inquiries.
On June 23, another 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and possession of ammunition for a firearm without a certificate. He has also been conditionally bailed pending further inquiries.
Police Statement on Targeted Attack
Detective Inspector Chris Clark said: “I hope the action shows that we are determined to rid our streets of dangerous firearms which cause misery for people in our communities.”
“We believe this was a targeted attack against this individual, who was chased on foot prior to entering the café. For the person carrying the gun to then open fire, with other people inside the building, is extremely reckless and could have had far worse consequences.”
“Enforcement operations like this warrant shows that Merseyside Police will proactively tackle issues that matter most to our residents and keep our streets safe. This supports the work we do every day of the year to tackle those involved in serious organised crime.”
“We all know too well the devastation that one firearm can cause in our communities, and we use all available powers to target and bring to justice those who supply, store, possess and use firearms.”
Anyone with information can contact Merseyside Police's social media desk via X or Facebook @MerPolCC, report online at merseyside.police.uk, or call 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website. In an emergency, always call 999.
