Armed police are in a standoff with a gunman who has reportedly barricaded himself in a house in Surrey.
Police are stationed outside a property on Careys Road, Smallfield, near Gatwick Airport, and have warned residents to stay indoors.
The incident, which began early Thursday morning, is not believed to be terror related.
MailOnline quoted an unnamed local businessman who said the stand-off was linked to a drugs raid.
He said: “I’ve heard rumours that it started off as a drug raid and I believe that the chap in there has got a gun and he was saying ‘I’m a free man of the land’.”
Surrey Police confirmed they raided the address and were faced with a gunman after a “pre-planned drugs warrant was executed” at 6am.
A spokesperson said: “Upon entry to the property a person was seen to be in possession of a suspected firearm.
“NPAS are assisting. A cordon is currently in place on local roads while police deal with the ongoing incident.
“Local residents are thanked for their patience.”