A man has appeared in court after police closed part of Brighton city centre following reports of a robbery.

Officers, including some who were armed with guns, sealed off part of East Street, Brighton, at just after 5pm on Saturday while an investigation was carried out into reports that occupants of a holiday let had been robbed.

Two men were arrested in connection with the alleged crime.

A 33-year-old Albanian man, Altin Haxhija, of St George' s Road, Brighton, was arrested and charged with six counts of robbery, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear or violence, blackmail, possession of a class A and class B drugs.

He appeared before Brighton magistrates on today (November 30) and was remanded in custody to appear on December 23.

A 30-year-old Brighton man arrested on suspicion of robbery was later released on bail until 19 January 2019 while enquiries continue.

Detective Sergeant Mors Lambert, of Brighton CID, said: "We believe others may also have been involved in offences linked to the incident in East Street, and anyone who saw anything suspicious at that location is asked to come forward."

Those who know anything should contact the police on emailing 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting Operation Tamarisk.

Alterrnatively anyone with information can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers without having to leave their name on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.