Dramatic footage shows armed officers swooping on a high street following reports of suspects carrying firearms.

At least seven police cars including a dog unit descended on Sittingbourne town centre shortly after midnight yesterday (February 24).

The drama unfolded at Bell Road, near the junction of Stanhope Avenue, with at least one non-marked patrol car in attendance.

Police say they were alerted to reports of three men allegedly carrying weapons – they were all arrested and later granted bail.

A spokesman for the force said: "Kent Police was called at 12.15am on Saturday to a report three people seen in Bourne Place Multi-Storey Car Park appeared to be in possession of possible firearms.

"The suspects then got into a vehicle and left the scene.

"At around 1am, firearms officers attended Bell Road where the vehicle was stopped and searched.

"An imitation firearm was seized, as well as items including a balaclava and face mask.

"Three men, aged in their 20, were arrested on suspicion of possessing firearms with intent."

They have all since been bailed until May 24.