A police helicopter was required to locate and arrest a man in connection with a suspected firearm incident in Oxfordshire.

The incident took place from 11.30am onwards on Wednesday, July 31, and lasted into the afternoon as police units were dispatched to Overthorpe Road in Banbury.

A 52-year-old man of no fixed abode was arrested on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence by Thames Valley Police

Armed police officers seized an air rifle and say that the man remains in police custody.

READ MORE: Three arrested after 'stabbing' in Oxford city centre

A police helicopter was dispatched (file photo).A police helicopter was dispatched (file photo). (Image: PA)

A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: “We received a report of a man with a firearm in Overthorpe Road, Banbury, at around 11.30am today (31/7).

“The incident was resolved safely with no one hurt or threatened with a firearm.

“Our investigation is ongoing and anyone with information should call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43240365045.”

This was confirmed by the National Police Air Service who dispatched a helicopter from Birmingham to aid Thames Valley Police.

READ MORE: Police issue update after two children hit by cars

A spokesperson from NPAS said: “At 12.28pm on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, a police helicopter crew from NPAS Birmingham was deployed to the Banbury area to assist Thames Valley Police in the search for a suspect in a vehicle.

“Total flying time was 50 minutes and the local police log number is 538/870 of 31/07/2024.”

Help support trusted local news

Sign up for a digital subscription now: https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/subscribe/

As a digital subscriber you will get:            

  • Unlimited access to the Oxford Mail website        
  • Advert-light access             
  • Reader rewards             
  • Full access to our app