Four men arrested after gun fired in Croydon machete chase

Four men were arrested last night after police responded to reports of a violent confrontation involving machetes and a firearm in Thornton Heath. The incident occurred on Galpins Road at 20:31 on 7 August, according to the Metropolitan Police.

Officers were called following multiple emergency calls describing a group of men armed with machetes chasing another individual. A firearm was discharged during the incident, though no injuries were reported at the scene, the Met confirmed.

Arrests made but no injuries found

The four suspects, aged between 19 and 24, were detained on suspicion of affray. They remain in police custody while investigations continue. The Metropolitan Police have not released further details about the identities of those involved or the type of firearm used.

A police spokesperson said: "Police were called at 20:31hrs on Friday, 7 August, following reports of an altercation in Galpins Road, Croydon. Officers received reports that a group of men holding machetes were believed to be chasing a man before a firearm was discharged."

The spokesperson added that no injuries were reported, though the incident prompted a significant emergency response. The area was cordoned off while officers conducted initial searches, but no further details about potential evidence recovered have been disclosed.

What happens next

The four men remain in custody while the Metropolitan Police carry out further enquiries. Residents with information about the incident are asked to contact the force via its online reporting tool or by calling 101, quoting reference CAD 5478/7AUG.

The investigation is ongoing, and police have not confirmed whether any charges will be brought. The Met has not released details about any potential links to organised crime or previous incidents in the area.