A MAN believed to originate from Central Africa is being held on suspicion of making threats to kill and false imprisonment at a firm on Prescot Road,St Helens today.

It follows an armed siege during which a man carrying a suspicious package was holed up in a St Helens firm’s HQ.

The five hour stand off at Alfred H Knight on Prescot Road, St Helens ended when a man finally left the building following talks with police negotiators at about 5pm today.

Police confirmed a 35-year-old man of Central African origin is now in custody and is due to be questioned by detectives

Police will now assess whether a suspect package a man was allegedly carrying was dangerous or explosive.

The St Helens Star broke the story of the security alert at the premises that unfolded from 11.30am this morning.

It has been unclear all day as to whether the incident did at any time involve hostages.

Alfred H Knight Ltd, the company at the centre of what police described as a "security alert", is a metal sampling and analysis firm that works across the globe, including in Africa.

Sources have told the Star today's incident could have links to mining work in Africa.

Earlier today a 300-metre cordon was put around the area, with armed police, a large number of fire engines, and a bomb disposal squad called to the scene.

A Merseyside Police statement read tonight: "No one has been injured during the incident and the site will remain cordoned off until a search of the premises has been completed."

St Helens Council set up a temporary reception centre at Carmel College and a small number of residents have been moved there following evacuations.

It also resulted in delays to staff and students at Carmel College getting home because of the road closures.

Road closures have affected Prescot Road between Lugsmore Lane and Portico Lane. Police are advising motorists to avoid the area.