POLICE firearms officers descended on a Taunton housing estate following reports of a teenager threatening people with what appeared to be a handgun.

The boy was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence during the incident in the Halcon area at about 7.15pm on Monday (March 21).

He was later released under investigation and police are appealing for witnesses.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: "Police were called to reports of anti-social behaviour in the Halcon area of Taunton at about 7.15pm on Monday 21 March.

"There were reports of a group of young people with what was described as a 'stun gun' in a park off Baldwin Road, anti-social behaviour in Seabrook Close and also a call reporting that a teenager had threatened members of the public with what appeared to be a black handgun in Cromwell Road.

"Officers attended and carried out searches of the area, leading to the arrest of a teenage boy at about 9pm on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

"The boy was later released under investigation and enquiries continue."

The spokesperson added: "Specialist firearms officers were involved in the search due to the weapons mentioned. There are no reports of injuries."

Anyone with any information that could help the police investigation is asked to call 101 and give the reference 5222067627.

Alternatively ring the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.