Six arrested and three knives recovered after Ashford town centre disturbance
10:50, 05 February 2020
updated: 11:21, 05 February 2020
Six people, including four teens, have been arrested and knives have been recovered following a town centre disturbance yesterday.
A number of police cars and two helicopters could be seen in Ashford after an armed gang were spotted rampaging through the town.
The incident, which took place in the County Square Shopping Centre at 1.30pm, involved two groups of people and there were reports that weapons had been seen by shoppers.
One eyewitness said: "This guy was walking out of the centre towards Bank Street and turned to shout at a group of men.
"The other guys - there were four of them - had masks on and the security guards in the centre saw they had knives.
"When they walked past me I saw one had a rusty machete, it was completely on show."
At the time it was reported that the groups had dispersed, however a search aided by the helicopters proved fruitful.
A 26-year-old man from London, four 17-year-old boys and an 18-year old man, all from Ashford, were arrested on suspicion of affray and were taken into custody. All those arrested are believed to be known to each other.
Three knives were also found by officers.
Superintendent Simon Thompson said: "We take robust action against those involved in threatening behaviour and those who cause fear in our communities.
"Patrols will remain in the town centre as part of their daily duties, should anyone wish to provide further information regarding the disturbance. They will also continue to carry out stop and search procedures as appropriate."
Anyone with information should call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/21923/20.
