Detectives are appealing for information following a firearms incident in Wishaw last night (Wednesday).
A huge team of forensic officers dressed in white suits could be seen in the area today conducting a search as enquiries continue.
Additional uniform patrols have been drafted into the area today as police investigate the incident that took place on Wednesday evening.
They had received a number of calls in relation to a disturbance which occurred in the Craigneuk area in which shots were reportedly heard.
Around 8.30pm on 14 July, 2021 a number of calls to police reported the disturbance and gun shots being fired at an individual who was walking on Gateside Road.
Police swarmed the area, some of them armed, and a helicopter could be seen hovering above the residential area as a cordon was thrown up.
When officers arrived at the scene there was no trace of those involved, or of anyone injured.
It is believed a man walking along Gateside Road was the intended target and enquiries are ongoing to identify him and confirm his whereabouts.
Concerned residents today spoke out about the drama.
One said: "It was terrifying we were sat in the house and heard loud gun shots, it was like two bangs.
"They were so loud. We didn’t know where they came from at all, but we were scared to leave the house."
Another added that the police presence had remained high.
He said: "Police have been down here since last night and the whole bottom of the road.
"We don’t have a clue who it could have been but it makes you terrified in your own home."
Another added that local parents would be fearful.
She said: "People with young families live all along here and to think people are saying guns were being fired.
"We think it’s so so scary that kids could have been caught up in it.
"People should be ashamed."
Another resident said: "‘I was out last night and came home this morning to police everywhere.
"People are saying they thought it was fireworks at the time. Now we’re hearing it could be a gun. It’s terrible.
"The kids can’t get to the skatepark. Family and friends can’t come visit people in the houses inside the tape."
The suspect is described as wearing black bottoms and a black top and is believed to have made off on foot along Glencairn Avenue after the incident.
Detective Inspector David Lamont from Wishaw CID said: “The incident took place in a residential area, which was busy with children playing and people going about their daily business, and it is vital we trace the person or persons responsible for this reckless act.
“At this stage, we do not believe the intended target was injured during the disturbance but it is still important we establish their identity and that they are safe and well.
“I would like to speak to anyone who was in the area of Gateside Road or Glencairn Avenue at the time, who either witnessed what happened or saw anything at all untoward.
"I would also urge any motorists with dash-cams who were nearby to please check their footage in case they have captured anything which could be of significance."
Area Commander Chief Inspector Gillian Norrie added: “This incident will understandably cause alarm within the community and a thorough investigation is underway to identify those involved.
“Additional uniform patrols will be in the area to provide reassurance to members of the public and I would urge anyone with concerns, or who may have information which could assist the investigation, to approach our officers who will be happy to assist.”
Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101. Information can be left anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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