A MAN has been arrested after a seven-hour siege in Hove today.
Police were called at 8am to reports of a man throwing items from a window and making threats.
Armed officers swooped on Portland Road and there was a tense standoff.
Specially trained negotiators were called but the man did not surrender.
Police in riot gear then battered down the door and raided the property in dramatic scenes this afternoon.
A man was later brought out and put into a police van.
Police confirmed a 46-year-old was arrested on suspicion of threats to kill and is now in custody.
They thanked people for their patience and co-operation as the road was closed for most of the day.
Nearby West Hove Infants School was reportedly on lockdown while the drama unfolded.
A smashed plant pot was among scattered debris on the pavement outside Fresh Pizza.
Several police cars and vans were at the scene throughout the day.
Police said in a statement this morning: "Police have attended an address in Portland Road in Hove at around 8am on Friday morning after concerns for a man in a property.
"The man has thrown items from the window and a section of the road has been closed while officers try and speak to him.
"The road between Rutland Road and School Road is currently closed.
"The incident is contained within the flat and there is no threat to members of the public but they are asked to stay away while officers are on scene."
Bystander Hayden Johnson, 18, said: "I was on my way to work on the bus but now the buses can't get through. I'm standing outside here getting absolutely soaked.
"I came out to have a look to see all the smashed stuff on the floor. What a way to start the day."
Another bystander, Michael Effingham, 47, said: "I was walking home now I can't get into my house.
"Looks like I'm going to have to stand around here.
"I'm not sure for how long, but right now I'm absolutely drenched."
More as we have it...
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