Police have made an arrest after a ‘man with a gun’ in Wigan turned himself in. Armed officers descended on Billinge, Wigan, at around 2.30pm on Monday (April 22) following reports of a suspect with a firearm near two primary schools.
Parents from St James Catholic Primary in St James’ Road, Orrell, reported a large police presence in the area and that pupils were being kept inside amid the incident. Police later confirmed that nearby schools were temporarily put on lockdown amid the ‘frightening incident’.
Officers remained in attendance throughout the afternoon amid ongoing investigations, with a house in Skelmersdale being searched after a warrant was issued.
READ MORE Police swarm Wigan in search for ‘man with gun’ near two primary schools
Greater Manchester Police have now confirmed that at around 8.30pm, a man in his 20s was arrested on suspicion of making threats to kill and firearms offences after handing himself into Skelmersdale Police Station. He remains in custody to be questioned.
Detective Sergeant Christian Glover, of Wigan CID, said: “This would have been a frightening incident for anyone who witnessed it or was aware of what had happened. There was a credible threat at the time, which is why armed officers were quickly deployed to the area.
“Schools were advised not to release pupils for a short period of time, but we believe there is now no wider threat to the community. Enquiries continued throughout the day and our investigations led us to a house in Skelmersdale where searches are continuing this evening.
“Our investigation is still very much ongoing – anyone with information should call 0161 856 7094. You can also report information and crimes on our website using the ‘report’ tool.
“Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in an emergency.”
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
