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'Shots fired' in city restaurant 'Shots fired' in city restaurant
(about 1 hour later)
Armed police sealed off a restaurant in a Birmingham retail centre following reports of a shooting. Armed police have sealed off a restaurant in a Birmingham retail centre following reports of a shooting.
The restaurant - Cafe Lazeez in the Mailbox retail and office complex - was cordoned off and evacuated. A West Midlands Police spokeswoman said officers were called to a firearms incident in the Mailbox shopping complex in the city at 2145 GMT.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said a medical team was called to the scene at 2148 GMT. One witness said he heard a volley of shots and saw people running from Cafe Lazeez, an Asian cuisine restaurant.
"Once we arrived at the scene we awaited instruction from the police. We were stood down at 11pm and have not treated anybody," the spokesman said. "A number of shots were discharged. There are no reports of anyone injured at this stage," police said.
Despite the presence of armed officers and the force helicopter, police have not yet confirmed details of the incident. I could see people clambering over each other like ants, trying to get out Eyewitness
Another witness, an employee of BBC Birmingham - which is based in the Mailbox - said: "I heard a vibration through the floor.
"I went over to the window which overlooks the restaurant and could see people clambering over each other like ants, trying to get out.
"People were fleeing in desperation. It looked like they were running for their lives.
"Initially I thought an explosive device had been detonated in there because that's what it felt like."
People are still being allowed into the Mailbox.People are still being allowed into the Mailbox.
The complex, which is home to BBC Birmingham, also houses Harvey Nichols, offices and retail outlets as well as restaurants, two hotels and 144 apartments. The complex also houses Harvey Nichols, offices and retail outlets as well as restaurants, two hotels and 144 apartments.