TWO men have appeared in court in connection with an alleged firearms incident in Bournemouth.

A large police presence was seen in West Howe on Saturday evening following reports of a crash involving two vehicles in Moore Avenue, West Howe.

It was reported an air-powered firearm was discharged in the incident, but no injuries were sustained from this. Two people were taken to hospital as a precaution due to the collision.

Callum Mark O’Donnell, aged 22 and of Martin Avenue, Oldham, and Zakaria Bensmail, aged 18 and of Wimborne Road, Poole, appeared at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Monday, August 8.

The pair have been charged with affray, possession with intent to supply crack cocaine and threatening a person with a machete in a public place.

Bensmail is further accused of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, dangerous driving, using a vehicle without insurance, driving without a licence and criminal damage.

The 18-year-old has also been charged in connection with an alleged motoring incident in Braidley Road, Bournemouth, on May 29. He is accused of dangerous driving, using a vehicle without insurance and driving without a licence.

Both defendants did not enter pleas at the hearing before being remanded into custody. The case was sent to Bournemouth Crown Court, with a plea and trial preparation hearing due to take place on September 5.