Residents in part of Chelmsford were evacuated overnight after Essex Police discovered items requiring specialist attention during an investigation at a property in Meadgate Avenue.
A 100-metre safety cordon was established around the area as a precaution while specialist officers continue their work.
The incident began on the evening of Tuesday, 9th June, when officers executed a warrant at an address in Meadgate Avenue as part of an ongoing investigation. Before the warrant was carried out, a 34-year-old man from Chelmsford had already been arrested on suspicion of an offence under Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act 1883. A 33-year-old woman from Ongar was also arrested. Both remain in police custody.
According to Essex Police, searches at the property led officers to identify items that required "specialist focus", prompting the evacuation of a number of nearby properties and the establishment of the cordon.
In a statement, Essex Police said the measures had been taken to ensure the safety of local residents and to allow specialist teams the space and time needed to assess the items discovered.
The force has not yet provided further details about the nature of the items found, but has confirmed that enquiries remain ongoing and that updates will be issued when possible.
Residents in the affected area have been thanked for their patience and understanding while emergency services continue their work.
What is Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act?
Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act 1883 relates to the making or possession of explosive substances under suspicious circumstances. Investigators must establish the circumstances surrounding any items recovered before determining whether any offences have been committed.
Investigation Continues
At the time of writing, the cordon remains in place and specialist officers are continuing their assessment of the scene. Residents are advised to follow any instructions issued by emergency services and avoid the affected area unless necessary.
You can read more on the Essex Police Website.
A 100-metre safety cordon was established around the area as a precaution while specialist officers continue their work.
The incident began on the evening of Tuesday, 9th June, when officers executed a warrant at an address in Meadgate Avenue as part of an ongoing investigation. Before the warrant was carried out, a 34-year-old man from Chelmsford had already been arrested on suspicion of an offence under Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act 1883. A 33-year-old woman from Ongar was also arrested. Both remain in police custody.
According to Essex Police, searches at the property led officers to identify items that required "specialist focus", prompting the evacuation of a number of nearby properties and the establishment of the cordon.
In a statement, Essex Police said the measures had been taken to ensure the safety of local residents and to allow specialist teams the space and time needed to assess the items discovered.
The force has not yet provided further details about the nature of the items found, but has confirmed that enquiries remain ongoing and that updates will be issued when possible.
Residents in the affected area have been thanked for their patience and understanding while emergency services continue their work.
What is Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act?
Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act 1883 relates to the making or possession of explosive substances under suspicious circumstances. Investigators must establish the circumstances surrounding any items recovered before determining whether any offences have been committed.
Investigation Continues
At the time of writing, the cordon remains in place and specialist officers are continuing their assessment of the scene. Residents are advised to follow any instructions issued by emergency services and avoid the affected area unless necessary.
You can read more on the Essex Police Website.
Chelmsford cordon
Meadgate Avenue Chelmsford
Chelmsford police incident
Meadgate Avenue evacuation
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