3 people have been arrested by Armed Police after a man was reportedly seen with a machete in Ryde, prompting a significant police response last night (Sunday).
It was just before 22:00 that Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary received a report that a man had been seen with a machete on Spencer Road – an upmarket part of Ryde.
The man was then seen to get into a vehicle with another man before leaving the area, sparking a frantic search to locate the suspects.
Armed officers from both sides of the Solent were deployed, with a Ministry of Defence Police boat rushing more than 5 Authorised Firearms Officers from the mainland to Ryde Pier.
Police subsequently located the vehicle, with 2 men found nearby swiftly arrested in connection with the incident.
It has been confirmed that a 22-year-old man from Ventnor was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs.
A 22-year-old man from Ryde was arrested on suspicion of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause fear of or provoke unlawful violence, possession of a knife or sharp pointed article in a public place and being concerned in the supply of a Class B drug.
A search of a luxury property on Westfield Park, off Spencer Road, was then carried out in connection with the incident, which saw more than 10 Police vehicles in attendance.
A 51-year-old woman from Ryde was arrested on suspicion of acquiring, using or possessing criminal property and being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs.
All 3 remain in custody this lunchtime.
Officers are continuing enquiries in the local area. Anyone with concerns can speak to a uniformed officer.
