UPDATE: Three men with a gun are being hunted by armed police in Hove this lunchtime.
Officers on the ground and in the police helicopter are searching the area around Coleridge Street, Hove.
The men were reported to Sussex Police at 11.45am. Firearms officers are assisting with the search and it has now been confirmed that a police officer has been threatened with a gun by one of the men.
Pupils at Blatchington Mill and Hove Park schools reported that their schools were in “lockdown” after police advised staff to keep pupils inside.
However, the schools have now been advised it is safe to carry on as normal.
Chief Superintendent Graham Bartlett of Brighton and Hove Division said: “The search for these three men continues, however due to the lapse in time and the high police presence in the area we believe the initial threat no longer remains and residents and school pupils are advised that they may continue with their day as normal.
“Intelligence work continues around these men and police officers will remain in the area today. At no point has there been any threat to any members of the public.
“Anyone who has any information which may help police build up a picture of what happened or where these men are now is asked to contact police on 0845 60 70 999 quoting serial 571 of 10/3 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. If you see anyone with a gun do not approach them and phone 999 immediately.”
