The effectiveness of armed police response was demonstrated as officers successfully detained a man who threatened the public with an imitation firearm and fired blanks at police in Braunstone Town, Leicester. Hari Mann, 25, received a three-year prison sentence for his actions, which included impersonating a police officer and causing significant community disruption.
Rapid Armed Police Response Prevents Injury
On Tuesday, June 4, 2023, Mann drove a Mercedes Sprinter van into a pub car park around 9:30 AM. The incident escalated when he pointed a handgun at a member of the public, prompting immediate armed police response. Officers arrived at The Glade within minutes of the initial emergency call.
Professional Response by Armed Officers
The armed police response team demonstrated exceptional judgment when Mann fired blank rounds at them. An officer quickly identified the weapon as an imitation firearm, allowing for appropriate tactical decisions that led to Mann’s safe arrest using a Taser.
Investigation Reveals Concerning Evidence
Following the armed police response, investigators discovered additional items at Mann’s Lancaster Place residence, including:
- Another firearm
- Police-style uniform purchased from online auctions
- Handcuffs
- Two vehicles equipped with emergency service features
Detective Inspector Hazel Sandall commended the response, stating, “Thanks to the quick reactions of our call handlers and firearms officers, he was detained before he was able to cause physical harm to anyone.”
The incident timeline shows impressive efficiency:
- 9:57 AM – Initial report received
- 10:15 AM – Suspect successfully detained
Mann pleaded guilty to multiple charges at Leicester Crown Court on October 9, 2024, including:
- Six counts of possession of an imitation firearm with intent
- Impersonating a police officer
- Assaulting an emergency worker
According to the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), armed response incidents require specialised training and precise execution.
The College of Policing (College of Policing) accentuates the importance of rapid threat assessment in armed response scenarios.
