A police officer has been injured during a dramatic stand-off with an armed man in Istead Rise this morning.

Armed patrols were called to Worcester Close at around 7.45am following reports that a man was carrying “two bladed weapons” near a construction site and park.

On arrival, officers engaged with the suspect outside a property. Police said the man was acting in a threatening manner and a Taser was discharged.

Officer injured

One officer sustained a cut to his hand during the incident and was taken to hospital for treatment. His injuries are not believed to be serious.

Arrest made

A 29-year-old local man was arrested on suspicion of assault and possession of an offensive weapon. He remains in custody while enquiries continue.

Eyewitness account

Witness Gary Hickinson, who was walking his daughter to nursery, said:

“When I got there the police had him in handcuffs already. I spoke to one of the officers who said that because an officer was injured the road would be closed for some time. It’s not what you expect to see on the morning commute, though.”

Police cordoned off part of Worcester Road while the incident was brought under control.

Police statement

A Kent Police spokesperson said:

“A 29-year-old local man was arrested on suspicion of assault and possession of an offensive weapon. He was taken into custody and an investigation is underway.”

The arrested man has been described as a British national.