A man has been arrested after armed officers raided multiple homes in the town.

People living along Waghorn Street and Castle Road in Chatham described seeing a “very large police presence” at around 7.20am.

James Bugden said there were around 12 armed and plain-clothed police officers, three or four police vehicles, and sniffer dogs in the area.

He added: “There was more police here than at Medway police station. Officers were coming from everywhere.”

Speaking to KentOnline, he believes a motorbike was involved in an incident and seized. This has not been confirmed.

It is understood the police helicopter was also seen overhead.

A spokeswoman from the force said: “As part of a pre-planned operation officers, including firearms officers, searched addresses in several roads across Chatham during the early hours.

“As part of the ongoing investigation, a 36-year-old man was arrested at around 8am in Listmas Road.

“He remains in custody while inquiries continue.”

Update: Adam Green, of Tangmere Close, Gillingham, has since been charged with handling stolen goods, possessing a firearm and ammunition for one when prohibited for life and possessing a prohibited weapon.

He appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (March 16) and was remanded to appear before Maidstone Crown Court on Friday, April 12.