Man bailed after explosive substances forces residents to be evacuated in Leyland
A large operation involving police and bomb disposal experts took place yesterday
Last updated 23rd Jun 2023
Police say a man arrested yesterday, after suspected explosive substances were found at a house in Leyland, has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
The whole area around Nursey Close had to be evacuated, after police found suspicious items in a dawn raid on a house there.
The Civic Centre council offices, as well as the Job Centre, both had to be evacuated, and residents were told to leave their homes, following the discovery.
Residents were finally let back into their homes yesterday evening.
Counter Terror Police are in charge of the investigation due to the nature of the discovery and their expertise in that area, although officers have been keen to stress that it is not being treated as terror related.
Supt Gary Crowe, place based superintendent for Chorley, South Ribble and West Lancashire, said: ”We have a significant policing and emergency services presence at the scene and we are asking people to avoid the area and find alternative routes where possible.
“It is expected the searches will be ongoing and continue tomorrow. Residents should expect some disruption while we continue our searches and I thank them for their cooperation and support so far.
A 59 year old man was arrested at the scene for offences under the Explosives Act. Officers have now confirmed that he has been released, pending further investigations.
In an update yesterday evening, Lancashire Police said: " A cordon which was put in place around the property has now been lifted and residents who had been evacuated are now able to return to their homes.
" We would like to thank the local community for their co-operation and support while we dealt with this complex and fast-moving incident.A number of police officers will remain in the area as reassurance and anyone with information or concerns should feel free to approach them."
Police say we can expect a larger police presence around the area over the next few days.