Four people have been arrested after a 'group of men with weapons and a gun' stormed a building in Manchester city centre.
Armed police and specialist officers were called to the scene of the incident on Store Street this morning (Sunday).
The M.E.N understands that the group forced their way into the building - a former factory - and threatened to kill those inside unless they left.
Some of the men, who were armed with weapons, fled the scene when police arrived.
READ MORE: Two teenagers arrested on suspicion of murder after man dies in city centre 'fail to stop collision'
Three men and one woman were arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm, burglary and threats to kill.
They all remain in custody.
GMP said no firearm was found after a search in the area.
The force helicopter was used in the operation and the road was cordoned off for several hours earlier today.
After the incident, a group of people in caravans arrived at the building, which is now being used a business premises, and parked up.
Police have ordered them to leave the area by tomorrow.
Officers were pictured surrounding the caravans earlier today and speaking to people inside them.
The owner of the building told the M.E.N that the group initially showed up wearing balaclavas and holding baseball bats.
"Two lads were trying to get everyone out then about 40 of them rocked up in caravans and just basically claimed it all as their own", he said earlier today.
"They basically just told everyone to get out and threatened to kill everyone."
He added: "I phoned up my business partner and we went down and there were girls just stood outside in one of the doorways who told us to leave.
"I then got followed round the car park by three lads in a big blacked out car and it looked like one of the guys had a gun.
"I called the police and now the whole gaff is surrounded by armed police and there's a stand-off.
"Everyone is alright but I think they were just shaken."
In a statement, a GMP spokesperson said: "A group of men armed with weapons were reported in a building before being confronted by the owner of the premises.
"Armed officers were sent to the scene following a report that the group had a firearm and the National Police Air Service assisted after some made off on foot.
"Three men and one woman were arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm, burglary and threats to kill. They remain in custody at this time.
"Enquiries are on-going and officers searched the area and no firearm was found.
"A Section 61 notice that orders the group to leave tomorrow has been issued."
Anyone with information can report it online at www.gmp.police.uk . Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
