A police helicopter is hovering low over Exeter city centre this afternoon.
The National Police Air Service (NPAS) aircraft first began hovering above Northernhay Gardens at around 3.20pm.
A spokesperson for Devon & Cornwall Police has revealed the reason for the call out.
The helicopter is involved in localised searches after reports a handbag was stolen from a person on Northernhay Gardens.
Police have stressed that the helicopter "was already in the area" when the call was overheard on their radio.
If you have any information about the incident, contact Devon & Cornwall Police on non emergency number 101 quoting crime reference number 500.
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It appears police are scaling down their efforts, there have been no reported arrests at this stage.
Ground units are also involved
Police officers have been seen in numerous locations around Northernhay Gardens and the High Street.
Police appear to be speaking with two separate groups of people.
They have also been carrying out enquiries in certain businesses, including Starbucks.
