More than 50 houses evacuated after 'suspicious items' discovered by police

5 December 2021, 16:14 | Updated: 5 December 2021, 23:17

Police have said they do not yet know when residents will be able to return home after 50 houses were evacuated following the discovery of "suspicious items" at a property in Derby, but that residents are being housed in temporary accommodation overnight.

Derbyshire Police confirmed they were still at the scene just before 8pm on Sunday and said a man had been arrested on suspicion of making or possessing an explosive substance - but they added there was "no indication" the incident was terror-related.

"I would first like to thank everyone for their support and understanding during today’s incident," said Chief Superintendent Tracy Lewis.

"At the forefront of our minds is the safety of all those in the area as well as staff at the scene, and I know they are working hard to allow people back as quickly as it is safe to do so.

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"I am also aware that people will be concerned due to the evacuation and I would like to reassure them that there is no indication at this time that this is a terror related incident.

"A man has been arrested on suspicion of making or possessing an explosive substance and officers from the force are continuing their enquiries into the incident.

"I would urge anyone who has any information that may be of interest to the investigation team to contact the force."

More than 50 houses were evacuated on Sunday after police found "suspicious items" during a warrant search in the city.

Derbyshire Police said earlier: "More than 50 houses have been evacuated in Derby after a number of suspicious items were found during a warrant in the city.

"Officers attended a house in King Alfred Street, Stockbrook, at around 11.30am.

They added: "The Explosive Ordnance Disposal team are on site and a number of houses are currently being evacuated in King Alfred Street, Monk Street and Wolfa Street.

"Residents are asked to stay away from the area and those evacuated will be contacted when it is safe to return to their homes."

The force said earlier they were working with the council to provide temporary accommodation for residents.

A 50m exclusion zone has been set up by police.

Pictures from the scene show a heavy police presence, as well as members of the army and fire service.

Those living in the affected area will be informed when it is safe to return.