Armed police carrying machine guns storm Manchester's Arndale shopping centre in anti-terror training exercise 'to prepare for real-life scenarios'
by Isabella Nikolic For Mailonline- Greater Manchester Police staged the major terrorist incident at Arndale Centre
- They warned locals not to be alarmed by loud noises coming from town centre
- Armed police in full riot gear were seen running round wielding guns and shields
Armed police took over Manchester's Arndale shopping centre last night to complete a terrorism training exercise in preparation for any upcoming attacks.
Greater Manchester Police staged the major terrorist incident alongside the North West Ambulance Service staff and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.
They warned locals not to be alarmed by any loud noises coming from the town centre.
Armed police in full riot gear were seen running around the shopping centre wielding large semi-automatic rifles and shields.
Police assured the public that there was nothing to suggest an immediate threat to Manchester.
Last year it was announced that a major training exercise would take place in 2020 following the Manchester Arena attack.
The police released a statement which read: 'Officers from Greater Manchester Police alongside partners from NWAS and GMFRS will be taking part in a pre-planned routine training exercise within Manchester City Centre at Manchester Arndale this evening after the centre has closed.
'During this time, if you are within the area – you may hear loud noises coming from the centre however please do not be alarmed or concerned.
'This activity forms part of GMP's on-going commitment to ensure officers have substantial training in real-life scenarios.
'There is nothing to suggest an immediate threat in Greater Manchester.'