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Armed response unit at scene. Photo: Watchroom NI
Police firearms teams responded to an incident where a man was allegedly armed with a knife in west Belfast.
Armed response teams alongside the police dog unit, fire service and ambulance service were called to the scene at Beechmount Street after 8pm.
The PSNI said it received a report of a man armed with a blade in the Fallswater Street area shortly before 6.55pm on Saturday 5 July.
It was reported that the man had made off into the street following an altercation inside a home.
Local policing officers immediately attended the area alongside our armed response colleagues, in order to ensure public safety.
Large crowds gathered in the area as the incident was ongoing.
A police officer said: “The suspect was located inside a residential property in the Beechmount Street area; however a prolonged containment and negotiation process followed.
“Colleagues from Northern Ireland Ambulance Service also attended, and we thank them for their invaluable assistance.
“The man, aged 22, was arrested just after 9.30pm, on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence, two counts of common assault and three counts of criminal damage.
“He remains in custody at this time.
“Our enquiries are ongoing, and we would ask that anyone with information, including CCTV , dashcam or other footage, make contact with us on 101. The reference number to quote is 1177 of 05/07/25.”
More to follow.