A man has been arrested after armed police were called to an incident involving a firearm in Christchurch on Monday night.
The 38-year-old was charged with preparing to commit a crime, unlawfully possessing a firearm, possessing utensils for methamphetamine, and possessing cannabis.
He is due to appear in the Christchurch District Court on Tuesday.
Christchurch metro response manager, Inspector Leairne Dow, said the man was allegedly seen with a firearm on Papanui Rd about 7.30pm.
Police seized the weapon and were speaking to witnesses. No one is understood to have been injured during the incident.
Witnesses told chrislynchmedia.com armed police could be seen swarming over Papanui Rd, near the KFC, "with their guns drawn".
Dow said: "Police swiftly responded locating and apprehending the 38-year-old man in under 10 minutes.
"A sawn-off shotgun, cannabis and methamphetamine was located and seized.
"Police work hard to hold dangerous offenders to account, especially those who show little regard for the safety of our community.
"Police continue to be out in the community ready to respond to any unlawful behaviour by gangs and anyone who believes that they are above the law."
