Man 'in camouflage with a rifle' in Norwich identified as FUNDRAISER wearing fancy dress
A MAN who sparked an armed police search in Norwich after he was seen wearing full camouflage and "carrying a rifle" has been identified as a CHARITY FUNDRAISER in fancy dress.
Firearms units, a helicopter and other officers responded to a number of alarmed calls at around 8:30am, after the individual was seen wearing green combat clothing and apparently holding a long object as he roamed the streets of Whitefriars.
But now Norfolk Police have confirmed that the man has been traced and identified as a charity funraiser, wearing fancy dress and holding an "imitation firearm".
A spokesman said: "Following enquiries officers traced the man locally and can confirm he was a charity fundraiser wearing fancy dress and carrying an imitation firearm."
Chief Inspector Chris Spinks added: "This is the second similar high profile incident which has taken place in the last month.
"We would like to remind people to think carefully about the consequences of carrying imitation weapons and of their general appearance, which, as in this case could be misconstrued by other members of the public."
The man was visited by officers and given strong words of advice regarding the consequences of his actions.
No criminal offence was committed, confirmed Norfolk Police.
Chief Inspector Spinks added: "If the police receive reports of what is believed to be a weapon, openly displayed in public places we need to react promptly to the information that we are given at the time.
"Public safety will always be our priority when dealing with such incidents. Imitation weapons should not be used, or left, in public view."
Today's false alarm comes just one month after a similar incident, in which firearms units were dispatched to another part of the city following reports of a man carrying a sword.
A student later came forward saying he was responsible for sparking the manhunt while shooting a horror film.
