Armed police descended on a quiet Merseyside estate early today after reports of a man seen 'with a weapon'.
Roads were blocked off on the estate in Bowland Drive, Litherland, while the force helicopter circled overhead.
The police activity appeared to be concentrated around a block of flats operated by One Vison housing association.
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The police operation was scaled back later on in the day, while officers could be seen inside the Bowland Drive complex.
Residents spoke of their shock about today's developments.
One of them said there had been a police helicopter circling.
The resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "We saw about eight or nine police cars all come down here. Saw the helicopter flying around too.
"Someone rang up about a lad shouting about having a gun apparently. They blocked the road off. A lot of police were here. The armed unit were here as well. They didn’t even let me leave to get the paper this morning.
"I heard the helicopter go over, it shook the house. Was really low. Lots of police cars came flying down the road as well.
"I've had a message from my friend saying a man had a gun. There were a lot of police here this morning."
Another said: "I woke up this morning to the sound of the helicopter hovering overhead.
"There were loads of police cars and some of the officers had guns.
"This is a lovely little street and it's the first time I've seen anything like this."
While another said: "I saw the police going up and down the street. I couldn't make it out. It's very quiet around here.
"The road was still blocked off at around 9.30am. The helicopter was up as well.
"Police wouldn't allow any of us to leave the house."
A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: "At around 6.10am this morning (Thursday, November 18) officers were called to report of a concern for safety for a man on Bowland Drive in Liverpool.
"Armed officers attended after further reports of an unconfirmed sighting of the man in possession of an unknown weapon, although no threats or injuries have been reported to the public.
"A scene is in place on Bowland Drive whilst officers carry out an extensive area search for the man."
If you have any information please DM @MerPolCC, or message ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook using log 0123 of 18/11/2021.
You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form here.
