Four people were arrested in Dorchester on Monday 22 August following allegations of false imprisonment as well as drug and firearms offences.

At around 2.30pm officers conducting enquiries into an unrelated matter went to an address in Great Western Road.

It was reported that a man and a woman had forced their way into the address two days previously, made threats to the occupants and demanded to be allowed to stay there. It was further reported that the man was in possession of a firearm and items were stolen from the occupants.

Following enquiries by officers, a 39-year-old woman of no fixed abode was arrested on suspicion of false imprisonment and burglary. She has been released on police bail.

A 38-year-old man, of no fixed abode, was also arrested in connection with the incident and was allegedly found in possession of class A drugs. He was subsequently charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and possession of class A drugs. He is due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court today Thursday 25 August.

Police conducted further searches at two other addresses in Dorchester on Tuesday 23 August and recovered a suspected imitation firearm

Two further men – a 65-year-old from Dorchester and a 29-year-old of no fixed abode – were also arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm.

They have both been released under investigation as detectives conduct further enquiries.

Superintendent Stewart Dipple, of the Dorset County Local Policing Area, said: “Officers have responded swiftly to these reported offences involving a firearm, resulting in the arrest of four suspects as well as the safe recovery of a suspected imitation firearm.

“We take any reported offences involving firearms extremely seriously and will respond robustly and proactively to take action against those believed to be involved.

“We understand reports of this nature may cause concern for the local community. There will continue to be an increased policing presence in the vicinity as we conduct further enquiries and local officers will be carrying out reassurance patrols. Officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.”

Anyone with information can also contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220137235. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.