Leeds residents were alarmed when police were "flying around" the city centre earlier today in a hunt for a wanted Bradford man.
At 1.30pm today, (Saturday, February 4), a National Police Air Service helicopter was spotted circling over City Square, Leeds Waterfront, and Whitehall Road along the bridge which crosses River Aire. Meanwhile officers were also seen searching Home Bargains and Leeds Railway Station.
"Police are in Home Bargains and staff are outside unable to go in," one eyewitness said. "I've just seen them all near the train station," another added.
Read more: Armed police in Leeds city centre and force helicopter deployed to find wanted suspect
The force have now confirmed an extensive search was conducted after Dale Poppleton from Bradford was spotted in the city. The 41-year-old is wanted in connection with a serious offence.
Poppleton has half of his right ear and is described as a white male of medium built and over six feet tall. West Yorkshire Police said he is thought to have connections to not only the Bradford area but the north of England.
Officers would like members of the public to report if they see Poppleton, but are asked not to approach him. In an updated statement, a spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police (WYP) said: "Police have renewed their appeal for a wanted man after a reliable sighting sparked a major search in Leeds city centre today.
"Officers received information around lunchtime in relation to Dale Poppleton, from Bradford, who is wanted in connection with a serious offence.
"Armed officers, supported by a National Police Air Service helicopter, were deployed to the vicinity of Leeds train station following the sighting. Despite an extensive search of the surrounding area, he was not located.
"Officers are continuing to appeal for any sightings of Poppleton in the area or any other information that could assist the investigation. Members of the public are advised not to approach him but to ring 999 immediately if they see him.
Anyone with any information that could assist in establishing his current whereabouts is asked to contact officers via 101 quoting crime reference 13230018345.
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