Armed police arrested an individual at Exeter University today amid reports he had been threatening students with a handgun.

Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed an arrest had been made and that investigators were determining whether the weapon is genuine or a replica.

An eyewitness told Devon Live: “At about 12.20pm there were police with guns and riot shields outside the Amory building.

“They entered the building at 12pm. There was someone in handcuffs. The Old Library, Reed Hall, the Innovation Centre and Business School were on lockdown.”

A statement from the force said: “Armed Units were sent to Exeter University following reports of a student making threats to other students, whilst in possession of a handgun. Police currently have one man in custody and have seized a weapon; we are now looking to see if this weapon is genuine or a replica.

“We can confirm that we have had no reported injuries and are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with this matter. We wish to reassure those on campus that they are safe. Local officers will remain in the area as we continue our enquiries into this incident.”

The university tweeted: “There was an incident on the Streatham Campus today involving an individual suspected to be in possession of a firearm – the police were called and dealt with the incident swiftly. No one was injured and one individual is currently in custody.”