21-year-old arrested in south Bristol for suspicion of making explosive after major incident declared
A major incident in south Bristol led to the arrest of a 21-year-old man suspected of making an explosive device, resulting in the evacuation of 63 homes.
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening (July 22), when concerns were raised with Avon and Somerset Police at 5.55pm that an individual at a property in South Liberty Lane may have access to potentially explosive items.
The road was closed until 3am to allow police, fire and ambulance crews to attend and a major incident was declared until 7am on Wednesday (July 23).
A precautionary 100m cordon was put in place and residents from the 63 properties in South Liberty Lane, Risdale Road and Swiss Lane were evacuated from the area.
The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit attended the scene from about 7.50pm to check the property safely.
A 21-year-oldman was arrested at 7.10pm on suspicion of making an explosive and for being in possession of a class B drug (cannabis). However, early investigative enquiries indicate that the item found was not a viable explosive.
The latest update from Avon and Somerset Police - yesterday at 5.31pm - said the man remains in police custody following the incident.
Residents could return to their homes from 3am yesterday (July 23).
Police remained in the area yesterday to conduct forensic enquiries and additional searches, including utilising the dog unit, and a full police investigation has been opened.
Superintendent Stephanie McKenna, from the Bristol South Neighbourhood Policing, said: “I would like to recognise the patience and understanding of the local community while we dealt with this incident. I know this was likely a distressing time for those involved and we urge anyone with any concerns to contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team.
“I am aware there were concerns raised by residents about the timeliness of updates provided by officers on the ground. I appreciate this must have been frustrating and worrying and would like to reassure that we strive to provide up-to-date, accurate information as it becomes available.
”It is always our priority to protect and preserve life and officers worked with colleagues from other emergency services to bring the incident to a safe conclusion.
”We continue to engage with the local community and local authority as we progress our investigation.”