A GUNMAN evaded capture from an armed police raid and could be on the loose in the city.

Officers shut off Birdham Road in Moulsecoomb last night in a planned siege on a property.

The raid was in response to an incident around East Drive, Queens Park on Sunday at 10.30pm.

Nearby residents reported hearing gunshots, and a police helicopter flying overhead.

Meanwhile pictures from the scene appear to show shotgun shell casings scattered over the road.

More than 40 hours later, police have today said the suspected gunman remains at large.

But the police say the public are "not at risk" after the incidents.

One resident said: "I heard two unmistakeable gun shots. The bangs were not like a car back firing.

"There were terrific bangs, then followed by the sound of an engine revving and tyres squealing.

"Police arrived 20 minutes later and blocked off the whole road.

"A motorbike had been left on its side at the junction.

"I cannot believe this has happened, it is scary."

Remnants of the motorbike debris were still at the scene.

Another resident said: "I walked out into a crime scene. I asked the police what had happened, but they said they were not allowed to tell me.

"I believe it was a moped chase. I've heard there have been problems with drugs around here. 

"There were shotgun pellets that hit the side of a building, causing dents."

Police said they would not be issuing a description of the man.

The Argus reported that police were searching the Moulsecoomb estate yesterday, warning residents to stay inside.

The force said that a 42-year-old woman was arrested during the "planned" raid at about 7.30pm.

She was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender as well as failing to comply with conditions of a shotgun certificate.

She remains in custody at this stage.

A Sussex Police spokesman said: “A known suspect is outstanding and enquiries are ongoing to locate him.

"A firearm believed to have been involved in the incident also remains outstanding.

"The outstanding firearm is believed to be a shotgun.

"This is believed to be a dispute between individuals, rather than a threat to the general public, and we are actively pursuing all lines of enquiry to locate any persons of interest.

"The investigation continues and there is nothing at this time to suggest there is a risk to the wider public."

Anyone with information, or who saw or heard anything, is asked to contact the force on 999 or online quoting serial 1712 of 04/08.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.