ARMED police were called to a Boscombe shop on Saturday after reports that a man had smashed it up.

An armed response unit joined regular police officers outside Print-it in Palmerston Road after receiving a call at around 1pm.

Eyewitnesses said they saw the suspect led from the building by around ten officers and restrained on the pavement.

Passer-by Nigel Gillespie said: “I saw about ten officers gathered around the shop. It used to be called CIC, but now I think they print T-shirts.

“They went inside and pulled out a man with dreadlocks, who seemed to be struggling with them.

“Then they put him in a van and drove off.

“I have no idea what was going on, it seemed really strange. There were a lot of people gathered round watching.

“This whole part of the town is a mess, I’m sick of it.”

The owner of the business declined to comment on the incident, but Raye Collinson, owner of the tattoo parlour next door, said he had heard loud crashing noises.

“They had him outside on his knees in handcuffs,” the 74-year-old said.

“They were waiting there a good ten minutes for a van to come and pick him up.

“I’ve been here for 35 years now so I’ve seen it all before.

“It is a very bohemian area. It’s best to keep your nose clean and keep out of trouble. You can tell when they come in the shop if they are going to be a problem.

“I tell them to clear off.”

Dorset Police confirmed that a 51-year-old local man was arrested on suspicion of affray and criminal damage in connection with the incident. He was later released on bail.