Man arrested after West Cumbria schools briefly put on lockdown

The measure was in response to a series of calls and emails to a number of sites this morning

Author: Jonny FreemanPublished 4th Jan 2024

A man has been arrested after a number of schools in West Cumbria were briefly put on lockdown.

It's reported to have been in response to a series of calls and emails this morning (Thursday 4th January).

Cumbria Police have confirmed a suspect's in custody after they received reports of someone with a firearm this morning.

Officers are questioning a man on suspicion of malicious communications.

They say there's no indication of anyone having a weapon - and there's no threat to the public.

The schools affected are back open as normal and an investigation is now underway.

Cumbria Police statement

Police can confirm a man has been arrested on suspicion of malicious communications following concerns in west Cumbria today in relation to a man allegedly with access to a firearm.

While enquiries are still underway, there is no indication at this point that the individual ever had access to a firearm.

There is no threat to the public.

Officers will be speaking to those organisations affected by this incident to offer reassurance.

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