This is Sussex --A TEENAGE mum has been arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm following an armed raid on a council flat on Monday afternoon.
Police officers with guns stormed a flat in West Green at about 2pm and led away an 18-year-old woman after a weapon was found.
The police swoop came shortly after a home in Longhurst Road, Broadfield was raided in a planned operation focusing on both addresses.
Neighbours reported seeing armoured vehicles, police cars and a scenes of crime unit "racing along" Spencers Road, in West Green.
The teenager, who according to neighbours has a young daughter aged about three, was then led away from the flat as shocked residents looked on.
Neighbours who witnessed the drama unfold did not want to be named but described what they saw.
One woman, who lives in the newly-built block of 13 flats, which are used as temporary accommodation by Crawley Borough Council, said: "There was an armoured 4x4, two riot wagons, two undercover cars, a dog unit and two police cars.
"Most of us have got kids so it's a bit much to have that happening, but everyone's generally quite quiet to be honest."
Another woman who lives nearby heard a commotion and looked out of her window to see the flats surrounded by armed police. She said: "I looked out and saw loads of police. There were cars and armed response units and some of the police had guns.
"I saw the girl get arrested but I didn't know why."
A woman who lives further along Spencers Road said the street has been plagued by problems in the past and again more recently, since the new flats were built.
Previously, a council-owned hostel had stood on the site.
She said: "We thought when they built these lovely flats that things would get better, but their main door has already been broken twice, and they've only been finished since May.
"A guy climbed out of one of the windows too and damaged the roof. It used to be such a lovely road but we get no peace around here. We have people hanging around on the street drinking at 3am. That's why I'm selling my house and moving."
A police spokesman confirmed officers had affected search warrants in Broadfield and West Green. Nothing was found and noboby arrested in Broadfield.
But the spokesman said: "During the (West Green) search a firearm was seized, and an 18-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm.
"She has been bailed until October 25 pending further enquiries. At present, no one else is being sought by the police in relation to the offence." Reported by This is 16 hours ago.