ARMED police are maintaining a visible presence in Ipswich amid fears the town centre could be targeted by a criminal gang, The Evening Star has learned.
ARMED police are maintaining a visible presence in Ipswich amid fears the town centre could be targeted by a criminal gang, The Evening Star has learned.
Specialist firearms officers have been positioned in Dial Lane and St Lawrence Street, prompting concerns from the public.
But there have now been moves to reassure residents that no crime has taken place.
The secretive operation - described by one police source today as “ongoing” - was launched after intelligence emerged suggesting a premises in the area may have been identified as a target by criminals.
A number of officers have been stationed at strategic locations since then.
An increased police presence has also been implemented along Tavern Street, one of Ipswich's central shopping parades.
However, detectives have stressed that shoppers should not be worried by the high levels of police activity.
A Suffolk Constabulary spokesman said: “We are unable to discuss in detail what is an ongoing operation.
“However, we can confirm a number of measures including additional policing have been put in place following information received that an offence may be committed at a town centre store.”
n. Were you concerned by the police presence? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, email eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk or have your say at www.eveningstar.co.uk
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