A 28-year-old man has been arrested after an explosive substance posing “a threat to life” was discovered at a property in St Leonards, a seaside town in Sussex. The discovery, made on Thursday, prompted Sussex Police to declare a major incident and evacuate residents within a 100-metre cordon around the address on the A259 Marina.
The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team confirmed the chemicals found were explosive and dangerous. Police have stated that the incident is not believed to be terror-related. The suspect remains in custody on suspicion of producing illegal substances and making an explosive substance for an unlawful purpose.
The cordon, which extends between Caves Road and Sussex Road, also includes some properties on West Hill Road. Authorities have urged residents within the cordon to leave for their safety. Hastings Borough Council has set up a rest centre at the Royal Victoria Hotel for displaced residents, with about 30 properties evacuated so far.
Helena Dollimore, Labour MP for Hastings and Rye, confirmed she had been in contact with the Home Secretary, who has been briefed on the situation. Sussex Police Chief Inspector James Scott emphasized that the cordon was established “for public safety” and clarified that the property was not a drugs lab but contained “a number of chemicals in a room which are very temperamental.”
The A259 road is expected to remain closed for most of Friday as authorities work to resolve the situation safely. Woo Seung Shin, owner of the Royal Victoria Hotel, expressed his willingness to assist, stating that the venue is currently accommodating 55 displaced residents and providing food, drinks, and comfort.
One displaced resident described being woken at 04:00 GMT and told to evacuate. Police and emergency services continue to work on bringing the incident to a safe conclusion, though no specific timescales have been provided.
Stay tuned for more relevant updates, visit London Pulse News.
