ARMED police swooped into Mobberley after reports that three masked men were seen brandishing machetes in the street.

A police helicopter and large police presence surrounded Rajar Walk after the alarm was raised.

The incident happened shortly before midnight on Tuesday, August 29.

One resident said: “Three men had axes and were shouting.

“It was very frightening.”

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Another woman said: “My friend is shaking. She saw three masked men in black walking towards a house.”

Cheshire Police has confirmed they were called to suspicious activity shortly before 11.50pm on August 29 and are continuing to investigate the incident.

A police spokesman said: “Police made a search of the area and officers carried out house to house enquiries.

“One person reported a possible attempted theft of a vehicle.

“Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances.

“There have been no further reports of suspicious activity and local residents have been given crime prevention advice as a precaution.”

The alarming disturbance has left villagers feeling anxious.

The chairman of Mobberley Parish Council has reassured residents after speaking to the police.

Cllr Hannah Moss said: “The matter is currently under investigation and a number of detectives have been deployed to look into the matter following the attendance of armed officers.

“With it being a live investigation, there are limited details at this stage but I have been assured that all lines of enquiry are being explored.

“It has been asked that all witnesses cooperate with the police and provide any evidence they may have.

“The police are taking the situation seriously and say the scale of the response should reassure residents.”