Man 'wearing balaclava and carrying flick-knife' arrested in Southport just yards away from vigil for stabbing victims
SUMMARY
A man "wearing a balaclava" and carrying a knife was arrested in Southport near a vigil for children killed in yesterday's attack. Merseyside Police arrested the 32-year-old on suspicion of possessing a bladed article. Detective Inspector Gavin Mulcahy condemned knife crime and praised the "swift arrest." A police statement revealed the report was received at 6:50 pm, and the man was detained at 6:55 pm, with a flick knife recovered. No injuries were reported. The incident occurred close to a vigil where the community paid respects to the victims. Detective Inspector Mulcahy emphasized the devastating impact of knife crime and the importance of community assistance in identifying and reporting dangerous individuals. The Home Secretary called the investigation "extremely serious" and highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure public safety.