Kent Police have arrested a 24-year-old local man and recovered a suspected imitation firearm following a proactive patrol in Canterbury on Tuesday afternoon.
The incident began shortly after 4:30 pm on March 31, 2026, when officers patrolling the New Dover Road area observed a man acting suspiciously. When officers attempted to approach the individual, he fled the scene on foot, sparking a brief pursuit.
Police successfully detained the suspect after a short chase. A subsequent search of the immediate vicinity led to the discovery and seizure of a suspected imitation firearm. During further searches, officers also recovered a quantity of counterfeit currency.
The suspect was arrested on suspicion of firearms offences and held in police custody. Authorities have confirmed that the man has since been released on bail as detectives continue their investigation into the origin of the weapon and the fake notes.
The proactive stop is part of ongoing efforts by local patrols to disrupt criminal activity in the Canterbury district. Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact Kent Police.