An 18-year-old man was arrested in Willenhall, Walsall, after police received reports of a person carrying a sword and a gun. Officers were rapidly deployed to Lichfield Road just before 11.50pm on 26 August, following the alert.
The teenager was quickly detained in the area. West Midlands Police subsequently confirmed that the firearm was an imitation weapon, though they acknowledged the incident would have caused alarm.
Police response and public concern
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: “We understand this would have understandably looked realistic to others and created fear and concern.” The force emphasised that officers responded swiftly to the call and took the individual into custody without further incident.
The arrest took place on Lichfield Road, a main route through Willenhall, which saw a visible police presence during the evening. The street is a residential and commercial area, and the sighting prompted a number of calls from concerned members of the public.
Suspect in custody
The 18-year-old was detained on suspicion of possessing weapons. He remains in police custody for questioning, according to West Midlands Police.
Officers have not confirmed whether the sword was also an imitation or a genuine bladed article. The investigation is ongoing, and police have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
Community impact and next steps
The incident has raised concerns among local residents about the presence of weapons in the area, even if the gun proved to be fake. Police have stressed the importance of reporting such sightings, as rapid response can prevent potential harm.
The teenager’s questioning continues, and police will decide on further action based on the evidence gathered. West Midlands Police have not released any further details at this stage.
