POLICE are increasing patrols in Blaina following the arrest of a man who threatened members of the public with a machete.

Officers were called at 4.44pm on Tuesday to the High Street in Blaina following reports of a disturbance between individuals on the street and a man inside a property who was said to be throwing glass bottles from a window.

Chief Inspector Paul Staniforth said: “We believe the man then left the property in a distressed manner, armed with a bladed weapon and became threatening to individuals outside the address.

“Local officers attended along with firearms officers as a precautionary measure." Police arrested a 26-year-old man from the area on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon in a public place and affray. He is currently in police custody.

Officers later searched the property and four Samurai swords were located and recovered.

Ch ins Staniforth added: “This was an isolated incident but increased patrols by local police officers are now taking place in the area to offer public reassurance.

“Officers are continuing to investigate and asking anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone with any information to please contact 101, quoting log: 381 26/07/16”

Cllr Garth Collier, member for Blaina, who runs the Post Office in the town said, said he was alerted by a business owner to the incident and heard shouting and abusive language in the street.

He said: "I came out into the street and there were about 40 to 50 children congregating opposite his flat.

"I went out in the street to try to get people to leave the scene. I didn't feel threatened - I felt he was playing to the audience.

"I though the police handled it in a professional and calm manner."