Charges following firearms incident in Herne Bay

Armed officers were deployed to Herne Bay town centre, with a man later charged for firearm offences.

Kent Police was called at approximately 5.50pm on Sunday 21 June 2026 to the High Street where it was reported that a person had been approached by a male in possession of a weapon. 

Armed officers attended and a man was arrested within minutes at the scene. No injuries were reported and an imitation firearm was located and seized. 

Jesse Olbrechts, 30, of Colins Road, Herne Bay, was later charged with robbery and possession of an imitation firearm. He appeared before Margate Magistrates' Court on June 23 2026, and has been remanded in custody.

He will appear next before Canterbury Crown Court on 27 July 2026.