“Serious incident” was armed robbery

It has emerged that the “serious incident” in Montgomery last night was an attempted armed robbery at the town’s Spar shop.

A manhunt, where local officers, some armed, were supported by West Mercia Police as well as members of the local community, was launched after a knife was used during the 7pm incident.

Money was not taken but readers have reported that a young shop worker, who did not hand over the money, was held at knifepoint and punched during the frightening ordeal.

A 24-year-old man from the town was arrested later in the evening in Welshpool, but during the arrest two officers were injured with one said to have been bitten. 

DCI Martin Slevin said: “The high volume of officers and police vehicles in the area attracted a lot of attention and concern. We would like to reassure the public that we are not looking for anybody else in relation to this incident, and to thank members of the public for their assistance in bringing the incident to a close.

“If there are any witnesses who have not yet made contact with us, please call the Joint Investigation Unit at Newtown on 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”