Parts of the North Laine were cordoned off last night after a woman threatened to shoot people from a balcony in Tichborne Street.
Police were called to the flat at 8pm last night and closed the road while armed police were deployed.
Entry was made to the flat and two men found there were detained. Both are now helping police with their enquiries. The woman, who is known to police, was not present and officers are now trying to trace her.
Two toy guns, one of which matched the description of the ‘pistol’, were found in the flat and have been seized. No one was hurt.
Chief Inspector Dave Padwick, from Brighton police station, said: ” What started as a serious incident was eventually found to involve a toy gun.
“However, public safety is paramount in such situations and that is why armed police attended and the area was made secure.
“We are grateful to residents who may have been alarmed or inconvenienced for their trust and patience while officers dealt with the incident.”
Sophie Coley, who lives in the same road, was told by Sussex Police the road was closed for the safety of residents:
@ColeyBird Cant give any info at this stage. Road is closed for safety of local residents and will be reopened as soon as possible
— Sussex Police (@sussex_police) August 31, 2014
Tourist Alex South was alarmed to see armed police on the streets, tweeting: It’s all kicking off armed police everywhere.
