AN INCIDENT that caused Blackheath town centre to be closed off today (May 27) is not believed to be terror-related.

More details have emerged about the incident at Sainsbury’s in Blackheath, which happened at around midday this afternoon, which saw a fire started in the toilets.

Armed police swooped on the store to respond to reports that a man had been seen running from the store in possession of a knife.

Officers tracked him down and he was arrested nearby. The store was evacuated and road closures were put in place while forensic investigators conducted enquiries.

No-one was injured during the incident and investigations continue.

Force Incident Manager, Chief Inspector Paul Minor said: “The store remains closed while we examine the scene and assess the cause of the fire.

“The man in custody and his motives remain unclear however, we do not believe this to be related to any terror threat.”

Road closures remain in place at Halesowen Street, John Street and Union Street and motorists are advised to avoid the area.