Two teenage boys have been arrested following an assault involving a firearm in Swindon.
Armed police officers were deployed following a report that a man was assaulted in Regent Street, near The Savoy pub, at approximately 6.55pm yesterday (Tuesday, 30 August).
The victim, a man in his 30s, was approached by two males who were riding an electric bike. They assaulted him resulting in minor injuries to his head, nose and a broken tooth.
One of the suspects is believed to have had a firearm in his possession, however, detectives investigating the incident do not believe this was used.
Covert officers from Wiltshire Police’s Fortitude team were also on scene, with some officers checking CCTV footage of nearby businesses — including Subway.
Four Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) units from Bristol were called to the scene. They are specially trained to deal with casualties at firearms incidents, among many other situations.
Two 14-year-old boys have been arrested on suspicion of actual bodily harm (ABH) and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, as well as robbery in relation to a separate incident which occurred in Rivermead Skate Park.
DI Rachel Hardy said: “Due to the nature of this latest incident, there was a large police presence in Swindon town centre last night which I understand would have caused concern to the local community.
“Officers conducted extensive searches to locate the individuals involved and have made two arrests in connection with both this incident and the incident in Rivermead Drive.
“Two incidents of such a similar nature in Swindon in just a matter of days will no doubt be concerning for local residents. Please be reassured that we are conducting an extremely thorough investigation into both incidents and questioning of two individuals will take place today.
“We would urge anyone with information about either of these incidents to call 101 immediately – even if you think the information you have may not be relevant, it could significantly assist detectives with their enquiries.”
If you can assist the investigation, please call 101 and quote crime reference number 54220091750. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
