TWO teenagers were arrested after armed police and helicopters were seen in Christchurch.

The pair were detained by officers after a report of a group of young men stealing parcels in the area of Monkswell Green yesterday afternoon, May 10, with one of the men reported to have a knife.

Witnesses reported seeing armed officers near Lidl in Somerford Road, with police helicopters reportedly seen circling overhead.

There were no reports of any injuries.

One teen was arrested on suspicion of robbery and possession of a knife/bladed article in a public place.

The other was arrested on suspicion of robbery, theft and the possession of a knife/bladed article in a public place.

Dorset Police said there would be an increased police presence in the area while searches and enquiries are carried out.

A spokesperson for the county force said: “Dorset Police received a report at 4.32pm on Friday 10 May 2024 of a group of young men who were believed to be stealing parcels from outside a property in the area of Monkswell Green in Christchurch. It was reported that one of the men was believed to be in possession of a knife.

“Officers attended and a teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of robbery and possession of a knife/bladed article in a public place. A second teenage boy was later arrested on suspicion of robbery, theft and possession of a knife/bladed article in a public place.

“There will be an increased police presence at this time as officers make enquiries and carry out searches of the area. There were no injuries reported.”