'Mistaken Identity' Case Triggers Massive Police Crackdown On Firearms In UK

MOSCOW (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 22nd May, 2019) UK police said they arrested four people in northwest England on Tuesday in connection with a sprawling case of "mistaken identity" that has led to a massive crackdown on firearms in the area.

"This afternoon (Tuesday) a further four men were arrested following an operation in Newcastle meaning a total of 13 people have now been arrested," Northumbria Police said in a statement.

It started when a group of men knocked on the door of a home in Newcastle last Wednesday. They threatened the 37-year-old occupant with a gun but did not hurt him and fled before the police arrived.

"An investigation was launched into the incident but police believe the man was targeted in a case of mistaken identity," law enforcers explained.

Properties in Newcastle and nearby Washington were searched and suspects detained. Of the initial 13, nine men and three women remain in custody, while a thirteenth person was let go.

"We have launched a large-scale investigation and the fact we have arrested 13 people shows just how seriously we take firearms incidents," Detective Chief Inspector Paul Knox said.

He added that incidents of this nature were "incredibly rare" in the area. High visibility patrols will continue in commune where the victim's home is located in addition to other safeguarding measures, the inspector noted.