Firearms cops surround Swindon shop after reports of armed robbery

Firearms cops have surrounded a shop in Swindon following a serious incident.

Police officers were called to the scene in Penhill Drive at around 7pm this evening after a reported armed robbery at McColl’s.

Detectives from Swindon CID are in attendance, taking statements from to shop staff who have managed to leave the building.

It is not clear whether the suspect is still within the shop, but officers appear to be surrounding the door and have cordoned off part of the vicinity.

Penhill Drive is currently closed, blocked by Armed Response Vehicles (ARV) and a dog unit.

UPDATE 8.55PM: A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said: “We are currently at the scene of a suspected armed robbery at McColl’s on Penhill Drive, Swindon.

“Just after 6.30pm today (10/11) we were called to the store following a report that a member of staff had been threatened by an unknown male offender carrying a weapon.

“We are appealing for any witnesses who may have heard or seen anything suspicious in the area before, during or after the incident this evening. If that was you, please contact us on 101 quoting log 254 of today. You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“The member of staff was unhurt and officers are carrying out extensive searches of the area to find the offender.

“Please note that people living in the area may notice an increased police presence this evening as we continue our enquiries and some roads in the vicinity maybe closed and traffic disrupted due to our ongoing investigations.”