Armed police swooped on a North East housing estate this evening (Thursday, September 14) and arrested a male following an incident.

Residents were shocked to see dozens of officers descend on Dunoon Close, in Ragworth, Stockton, at about 5.20pm.

The estate was in lockdown for nearly half an hour as up to a dozen police vehicles converged on the scene.

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The Northern Echo: Armed police in Dunoon Close, Ragworth, Stockton

The circumstances leading to the operation have not been verified. 

One eyewitness, who did not wish to be named, said:  "It was like watching something out of the Police Interceptor television show. The whole estate was locked down. You couldn't get in or out. 

"There were several police Armed Response Vehicles on the scene with officers with their guns drawn. It was surreal to see. And there were dogs everywhere.

"There was also a drone above monitoring everything. There were vans and cars too - nearly a dozen units in all." 

The Northern Echo: Armed police in Dunoon Close, Ragworth, Stockton

He added: "Officers surrounded a property in the street, both at the back and front.

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"But a lad came around the corner (with his hands up) and handed himself in. They arrested him and took him away."

"It was impressive to watch and see how professional the police were."

The Northern Echo:

Cleveland Police have been contacted for more information. 

The Northern Echo: Armed police in Dunoon Close, Ragworth, Stockton