Statement from Northumbria Police regarding the incident on Saturday 27th December

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said:

"Shortly before 2.15pm on Saturday (December 27), we were alerted to a disturbance in the Yellow multi-storey car park of the Metrocentre in Gateshead.

It was reported that the occupants of two cars had been involved in a verbal dispute about a parking space, and one of the males was thought to be carrying a suspected firearm.

Armed officers were deployed as a precaution and five males - aged 17, 18, 20, 21 and 23 - were subsequently arrested a short time later in connection with the report on suspicion of possession of a firearm.

While no weapons were located by police at the scene, enquiries remain ongoing. All five males have since been released on police bail, pending further enquiries.

This is being treated as an isolated incident, and there is no wider risk to the public. Patrol activity is taking place as normal in the centre – and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with an officer on duty or a member of security staff. We would ask people to refrain from speculation and sharing misinformation both in the community and online while our investigation is ongoing.

 Anyone with information can send us a direct message on social media or use live chat and report forms on our website.

 Those unable to make contact in these ways can call 101. Please quote reference: NP-20251227-0496."