Armed police rushed to Eastgate Shopping Centre in Basildon after receiving reports of a teenager armed with a firearm. The incident occurred on a Saturday afternoon, prompting a significant police presence in a busy shopping environment. Officers conducted a thorough search of the area, which ended shortly after 2:50 pm with the arrest of a suspect.

Upon investigation, police discovered that the teenager was in possession of a BB gun, an air-powered firearm that typically fires small metallic pellets. Although the situation raised alarms among shoppers, the presence of armed officers and the swift response helped to ensure safety at the shopping centre. Following the incident, the juvenile was released but remains under investigation and has been referred to the Youth Offending Team.

The Eastgate Shopping Centre is a popular retail destination situated in the heart of Basildon, frequented by many shoppers, which underscores the impact such incidents can have on community safety and public peace. Essex Police's quick action highlights the importance of addressing potential threats, even when the perceived danger ultimately turns out to involve non-lethal weapons like BB guns.