Walsall Wood isn’t generally a regular gig for armed response units. Image from Apple Maps.

Yesterday afternoon, Tuesday 29th August 2017, armed police responded to what was believed to be a serious situation in Stewart Road, Walsall Wood, which thankfully was proven to be a false alarm.

The sudden armed response unit activity in such a quiet, suburban area understandably caused great concern locally and a huge amount of gossip on social media. I contacted West Midlands Police to clarify the situation.

This incident I will make clear now, contrary to circulating speculation was nothing to do with the nearby pub, CERTAINLY NOT terrorism or drugs related and was a genuine report given in good faith about a situation that turned out to be perfectly above board.

Their official statement says:

Police were called to Stewart Road in Walsall Wood just before midday yesterday (Tuesday 29 August) to a report of guns being taken into a property on the road.

Armed officers executed a search warrant and it was found that the guns in question were old air rifles.

The owner was a licence holder and no arrests were made.

It appears the call was made with good intent from a member of the public.

My thanks to Sharn in the Press Office and Inspector Sophie Worthington of the Brownhills Policing Team for their hep with this post.

Also, my thanks the West Midlands Police for working so hard and swiftly to keep us all safe.

Please be considerate and think about the feelings of the people involved commenting on social media. Whilst debate and discussion are to be expected, please be thoughtful and respect those involved when expressing views.