Armed police are in attendance on Margate seafront and in Ramsgate following a robbery at Coral’s bookies in Newington Road, just before 2pm today (February 19).
It was reported cash was stolen during the robbery. No injuries have been reported but witnesses state that a weapon was seen during the incident.
Following further information received, officers supported by the firearms unit, attended Marine Terrace, Margate where they arrested a man just after 3pm in connection with the robbery and he was taken into custody.
It has been confirmed that officers are still searching for a second suspect.
Patrols remain in at Newington Road and Marine Terrace while enquiries are continuing into the incident. No weapon has been recovered.
Visitors at Dreamland and neighbouring Cinque Ports pub and other venues along the stretch have been told by police to stay inside. Former councillor Iris Johnston is at the amusement park with her grandson and said staff have been told police were called to reports of a man with a gun.
She said: “We were about to leave when we were told not to. We were told there is a man with a gun.”
Resident Jane Harmer is also inside Dreamland. She said: “Dreamland has just made another announcement. Police advice remains the same, people to stay inside the building. People can leave if they want to but the police advice is not to leave. Dreamland can’t let anyone in either,police instructions.”
Another witness said there are armed officers, police dogs, unmarked cars and road blocks in place. A police helicopter is also reported to be in the area.
Armed officers are also in Ethelbert Crescent, close to the bowling alley.
Resident Bex Gibson said: “It is all going on outside my flat. I discovered a police dog outside my front door and went out to be met with this (below). I spoke to one of them and all they’d say is they are looking for someone that’s hiding.”
UPDATE 4.40pm: Visitors at Dreaqmland and other venues now advised it is safe to leave
