A gunman threatened a woman out walking - then apologised, saying the weapon was only "a toy".
The victim was left terrified by the incident and police have now made an arrest.
Police were first told of a man claiming to be carrying a firearm on Outwood Road, Heald Green, Stockport, at about 5pm on Thursday.
Fifteen minutes later a woman was walking along Crantock Drive, a neat, residential suburban road in Heald Green, when a man in front of her spun round and threatened her with a handgun.
He then apologised and told the woman is was a toy gun.
Officers from Stockport CID subsequently arrested a man aged 45 on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
He has been released under investigation and a weapon has been recovered.
Police are appealing for information following the incidents.
Detective Constable Rob Shakespeare of GMP’s Stockport District said: “There is nothing to indicate that the weapon seen in these incidents was a real firearm. The one recovered was an air weapon of realistic appearance.
“While we have made an arrest our enquiries are ongoing and would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time to get in touch.
“Perhaps you have dash-cam footage or other information that could assist our investigation. If so, please contact us.”
Police can be contacted on 0161 856 9735 or 14085@gmp.pnn.police.uk . Alternatively, contact the independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555
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