A man arrested outside an Aldi was an innocent member of the public who was helping a lost child, police have confirmed.
The man was arrested on Saturday (September 5) after an incident outside the supermarket, in Newton Aycliffe, which was recorded by members of the public and shared on social media.
But following extensive enquiries, including CCTV checks and speaking to witnesses, police have established that no offences were committed.
Officers said the man had been helping a child who told him they were lost.
Police are now asking anyone who posted or shared footage of the incident online to remove it.
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A Durham Police spokesperson said: "Earlier today a man was arrested outside of Aldi.
"We are aware that some members of the public have recorded this incident on their mobile phones and shared it on social media. We would like to reassure the public that after extensive enquiries including CCTV checks and speaking to witnesses it has been established that no offences have been committed.
"This was an innocent member of the public that was helping a child who told him that they were lost.
"If you have posted something or shared it then please can we ask that you remove it.
"Incidents like this captured and shared on social media can have a devastating impact on genuine members of the public who are innocent.
"Thank you"
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