Isle of Wight Police are appealing for information after an unconfirmed report of a youth carrying what appeared to be a gun in Bembridge.

Officers were called shortly after 1.30pm today (Friday, February 5th, 2010) to the Copse Butt area.

Police responded to an unconfirmed report from a member of the public about a youth carrying what appeared to be a gun.

No members of the public were threatened or injured.

Police officers from the Isle of Wight’s Targeted Patrol Teams (TPT), Dog Support Unit and Safer Neighbourhoods teams completed a search of the area and carried out enquiries with local shops and businesses. There was no trace of a youth. No criminal offences were identified.

Although initial enquiries established there was no immediate danger to the public, the police are keen to hear from anyone who may have information about a youth seen in the Bembridge area on Friday afternoon. The boy or his family are also encouraged to contact officers as there may be an innocent explanation for what was reported to the police.

The youth was described as:

• White
• Aged in his early teens
• Wearing a black zip-up padded waterproof coat with the hood up

Anyone with information is asked to phone Newport Police Station on 101. Mini-Com users can call 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, call 0845 045 45 45.