(Image: NEWSQUEST)
A man has been arrested after police seized an axe and a meat cleaver from him in Stockton town centre.
Armed police were called to the High Street at around 3.45pm on Wednesday, October 21, following reports of a man carrying a weapon.
Cleveland Police said officers quickly detained the 42-year-old and recovered an axe and a meat cleaver, which were seized.
He was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and taken into custody.
Further enquiries by Stockton CID also led to his arrest on suspicion of burglary and three attempted burglaries.
The man remains in police custody.
Images shared on social media show armed officers detaining a man on the High Street as shocked onlookers watched.
Detective Inspector Paul Edmonds said: "Our officers swiftly attended the scene and detained a man, seizing two weapons which now can't be used to cause any harm.
"I hope our quick and robust response shows how seriously we take these incidents.
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“I’d encourage anyone with any concerns to speak to our officers, or you can also report information to us on 101 or through our website for non-emergencies.
"The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously.”
He added that there would continue to be a police presence in the area to reassure the public following the incident.