A large number of Police officers have descended on Newport town centre tonight (Saturday) in what is believed to be a search for a wanted individual.
A mixture of vehicles have swarmed the area of New Street, Scarrotts Lane and surrounding roads, with officers looking down side alleys and in gardens.
The National Police Air Service helicopter is currently overhead and has been circling for almost an hour, indicating the severity of the incident.
It is unclear at this time if tonight’s search is connected with the ongoing manhunt for at least 1 individual following a serious incident in Ryde last night. Police are also looking for Jamie Leigh Simpson from Sandown who is wanted in connection with a serious assault. The suspect behind the Boxing Day robbery on Hunnyhill Stores is also being sought.
UPDATE @ 00:04 – The NPAS helicopter has now moved off from the area.
There appears to be no obvious sign of a crime scene and no other emergency services are involved.
UPDATE @ 00:30 – The search appears to have concluded with Police leaving the area.
UPDATE SUNDAY @ 09:06 – Island Echo is told that last night’s search resulted in the arrest of wanted man Jamie Leigh Simpson, although this is yet to be officially announced.
Sources close to the investigation into a serious assault in Lake on 20th December have confirmed the arrest.
UPDATE SUNDAY @ 11:45 – Hampshire Constabulary have confirmed that a 30-year-old man from Sandown has now been arrested on suspicion of assault.
He remains in Police custody at this time.
Police van parked outside jewson, been sat there for a good 20 mins
Police looking for a late night takeaway