A MAN from Hellingly has been arrested as part of an ongoing police investigation into a suspected firearm incident in Bexhill and a subsequent collision near Hastings.
The 21-year-old was arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and racially aggravated harassment of a police officer. He remains in police custody while enquiries continue.
The arrest relates to an incident in Sidley Green, Bexhill, at around 11.50pm on Monday, June 8, when police received reports of a disturbance. It was alleged that a firearm had been discharged during the incident.
A vehicle linked to the investigation was later involved in a serious collision in Ivyhouse Lane, north of Hastings, during the early hours of Tuesday, June 9.
Detectives have also arrested a 40-year-old man from Bexhill on suspicion of assisting an offender. He remains in custody.
An 18-year-old man from Bexhill has additionally been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possessing a firearm without a certificate, and possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Police have also provided an update on the four men arrested following the Ivyhouse Lane collision.
A 36-year-old man has been de-arrested, while a 26-year-old man remains under arrest. A 21-year-old man has been bailed pending further enquiries, and a 23-year-old man remains in police custody.
T/Detective Superintendent Jay Mendis-Gunasekera said: “This remains an active and complex investigation, and officers continue to carry out extensive enquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding these incidents.
“We recognise this incident will understandably have caused concern within the local community. Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while enquiries continue, and we are committed to identifying everyone involved and bringing those responsible before the courts.
“Our investigation is progressing at pace, but we are still keen to hear from anyone who has information that could assist us. We would particularly like to hear from anyone who witnessed the disturbance in Sidley Green, saw the vehicles involved travelling between Bexhill and Hastings, or has CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or mobile phone footage from either incident.
“No piece of information is too small. Even if you are unsure whether what you saw is significant, please get in touch as it could prove vital to our enquiries.”
Anyone with information is asked to report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Maxim. Information can also be reported anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Enquiries into the suspected firearm incident and subsequent collision remain ongoing.
