Dozens evacuated as bomb squad swarms Bristol homes: ‘Suspicious’ man is arrested as cordon remains in place
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Dozens have been evacuated from their homes after a bomb squad descended on a street in Bristol, with a ‘suspicious’ man arrested in relation to the scare.
Police were made aware of concerns that someone at a property in South Liberty Lane may have access to potentially explosive items at around 6pm on Tuesday.
Officers closed off the road to the public as police, fire and ambulance staff rushed to the scene.
The street, which has 63 homes on it, remains shut and cordoned off with a major incident status in place.
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that they safely detained and arrested the suspect at 7.10pm, adding there have been no casualties.
The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit then arrived about 40 minutes later to investigate whether the property was safe.
The team continues to work at the scene, assisted by specialist officers.
The force said: ‘An arrest has been made following reports of a man acting suspiciously at an address in south Bristol.
Dozens have been evacuated from their homes after a bomb squad descended on a street in Bristol, pictured in a general view image, with a ‘suspicious’ man arrested
‘Concerns were raised with police at about 5.55pm that an individual at a property in South Liberty Lane may have access to potentially explosive items.
‘The road was closed to allow police, fire and ambulance crews to attend, and remains shut at this time.
‘The man was safely detained by officers and arrested at 7.10pm.
‘The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit arrived at the scene at about 7.50pm to check the property is safe. That work at the scene is ongoing and specialist officers are supporting EOD.
‘A major incident has been declared due to the number of emergency services at the scene. There are no casualties.
‘Public safety is our main priority and therefore a precautionary 100m cordon has been put in place.’
There are 63 properties in South Liberty Lane, Risdale Road and Swiss Lane within that area. Ashton Vale Community Centre, in Risdale Road, is open to support those residents, if required.
We are grateful for the public’s patience and understanding while we respond to this incident and would please ask the public to avoid the area at this time.
