ARMED police surrounded a house in Blackbird Leys last night after reports of a gunman and burglar 'with a large knife'.

The officers raced to Emperor Gardens at around 12.20am after the pair tried to force their way inside in what police are describing as a 'rare' and 'targeted' attack.

Within minutes a 23-year-old woman and a 28-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary.

The man, who is still being questioned by police, was also arrested for possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear or violence.

The woman has been released on police bail until July 22.

Read more: dozens have died in Oxfordshire's prisons

Oxford Mail:

Nothing was taken during the attack, and nobody was hurt but now the senior police detective is hoping somebody saw something that could be vital to piecing together what happened.

Detective Chief Inspector Bruce Riddell, based at Oxford police station, said: “I appreciate that incidents such as this would cause concern in the local community.

“But at this stage, I believe this was a targeted attack and our officers quickly detained and arrested two suspects.

“Incidents such as this are increasingly rare, and in fact burglary in general has fallen considerably in the last 12 months.

“I am appealing to anybody that has any information about this incident or witnessed what happened to get in touch with police.

“Likewise, if anyone was driving in the area and may have dash-cam footage of the incident, please contact us."

With information call police on 101 quoting 43200190075.