Armed police in Plymouth street after machete alert

ARMED police swooped on Mutley following a report of a masked man carrying a machete in the street.

Six firearms officers were sent to the scene early yesterday morning following the 999 call.

However, they could not locate the man – and are now appealing for anyone else who may have seen him.

The incident was reported at 7.10am, a force spokesman said.

The man was described as being of mixed race and wearing a black coat with a fur hood.

The caller said he had a scarf partially masking his face as he walked from Mutley Plain towards Mannamead.

The police spokesman said officers were on the scene within minutes.

He added that there had been no other reports of crimes in the area at the time.

"However, carrying a knife like the one described to us – even if you are a chef on the way to work – is clearly illegal and dangerous," the spokesman said.

"It is an offence that can lead to fines or even prison."

The police would like to hear from anyone with information about the man or witnesses who saw him yesterday morning.

Witnesses can contact the police on the non-emergency 101 number quoting log number 187 of January 20.