Two teenagers have been arrested after police discovered an ornamental firearm and a pocket knife concealed in a bag in a busy Newcastle city centre square. Armed officers swooped on Old Eldon Square on Monday afternoon after spotting two boys acting suspiciously amid shoppers, workers, and families.
Arrests and Searches
When the boys were searched, officers found the weapons. A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of being in possession of an imitation firearm and a bladed article. He was released on bail after questioning. A 15-year-old boy, held on suspicion of being in possession of an imitation firearm, was told he will face no further police action.
A Northumbria Police spokeswoman said: “Just before 4pm yesterday officers were carrying out proactive foot patrols in Newcastle city centre, when they witnessed two boys acting suspiciously. Officers stopped and searched both individuals in the area of Blackett Street after they attempted to make off from police. During searches, officers located a pocketknife and an ornamental firearm concealed within a bag.”
Police Warning
The spokeswoman added: “We want to make it clear that carrying weapons and knives will not be tolerated in our communities. Our officers routinely proactively patrol the city centre to offer reassurance and respond to any issues appropriately. We would encourage anyone with concerns to approach an officer on duty. We’d also ask parents and carers to work with us and understand where their children are headed before getting mixed up in any wrongdoing.”
