A police inspector has reassured worried residents as police continue the hunt for an armed fugitive.

A search is underway for a man who allegedly threatened to shoot another man yesterday afternoon on Epsom Downs.

Epsom and Ewell Neighbourhood Inspector Craig Knight said he believed there was an argument between the men and there is no threat to members of the public.

Insp Knight said: “We don’t believe anyone is at risk other than the victim who is safe and well and under police control.

“There is nobody else at risk. Should that position change we will notify people immediately.”

He said a series of actions and enquiries were now underway to find the wanted man.

He said: "We are looking for the individual, we know who we are looking for and it’s only a matter of time before we find them."

A police spokesman said enquiries are ongoing to try and locate the man, adding: "The alleged victim and suspect were known to each other."

"There is no information at this stage that this man poses a wider threat to the public however residents are advised to take sensible precautions and report any suspicious behaviour to the police."

Police heard about reports of the incident at 3.50pm yesterday and Grandstand Road was closed in both directions between Downs Road and Old London Road.

Worried residents living near the downs took to Twitter to find out what was happening and if the area was safe.

Nathan Dillon said: "Kicking off on Epsom Downs, armed police, snipers, roads closed and helicopter up!"

Robyn Anderson said: "No idea what is happening on Epsom Downs, but there was a helicopter overhead and I witnessed armed police."

Jane Race said: "I could see the police helicopter circling over the downs from my house."

Related Article
BREAKING NEWS: Police launch manhunt for armed fugitive