A man has appeared in court following a violent incident that triggered an armed police response in the early hours of Saturday morning in Gravesend, Kent.
Emergency services were called to a property in East Terrace shortly before 1am on Saturday, April 19, after reports of a serious disturbance. Officers—including armed units—attended the scene, where significant damage was discovered both inside the property and to a nearby van.
A police vehicle was also damaged during the course of the incident, which unfolded close to Milton Road and the Riverside Leisure Area.
A thorough search of the premises led officers to recover a blank firing handgun and blank ammunition.
Arrest and Charges
Shane Banks, 34, of East Terrace, was arrested at the scene and taken into custody. He was later charged with three counts of criminal damage and committing an offence under the Firearms Act while in possession of an imitation firearm.
Banks appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court on Monday, April 21, where he was remanded in custody. He is set to appear at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday, May 19.
Large Emergency Response
Residents reported a heavy police presence in the area during the early morning hours. More than ten police and ambulance vehicles were seen parked around Milton Place, which was taped off for several hours. Officers responded to reports suggesting a man at the address may have had access to weapons.
The cordons were lifted later that evening once the area was declared safe.
Community Reaction
The incident sparked concern in the neighbourhood, with locals expressing unease over the armed police deployment and road closures. Authorities have reassured the public that this was an isolated incident and no injuries were reported.
Kent Police continue to appeal for any witnesses or those with information to come forward. Anyone with relevant details is urged to contact them via 101, quoting the incident reference.
