A major incident has been declared in Derby following a significant police operation that resulted in the evacuation of approximately 200 homes and the arrest of two men on suspicion of explosives offences.
Police Raid and Mass Evacuation
Derbyshire Police executed a warrant at a property on Vulcan Street on Thursday, 4 December, acting on specific intelligence regarding materials at the address. The operation led to the immediate establishment of a large cordon, encompassing seven residential roads, and the precautionary evacuation of the neighbouring estate.
Two men, one aged in his 40s and another in his 50s, were arrested at the scene on suspicion of explosives offences. Both individuals remain in police custody for questioning. To ensure public safety, authorities advised all evacuated residents to prepare to be away from their homes for at least 24 hours.
Army Bomb Disposal Teams on Scene
The situation necessitated the deployment of the Army's Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, which is supporting police at the location. In an afternoon update, authorities warned residents they might hear a controlled bang as part of the EOD's work to make the area safe.
A police spokesperson confirmed: "This is not being investigated as a terrorism incident, there is no wider risk to the community, and the evacuations are a precaution to ensure the safety of those in the area."
The force is working closely with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, East Midlands Ambulance Service, and Derby City Council to manage the incident.
Road Closures and Support for Residents
The police cordon has led to significant road closures in the area. Shaftsbury Crescent, Vulcan Street, and Reeves Road are completely closed, while Harrington Street, Baseball Drive, Colombo Street, and Cambridge Street are partially shut.
For those displaced, a temporary rest centre has been set up at the Salvation Army building on Osmaston Road. Officers are conducting door-to-door visits within the cordoned zone to ensure everyone's safety.
The constabulary has asked anyone who self-evacuated from the area to contact them via Facebook messenger on the main Derbyshire Constabulary page. Those without access to social media are urged to call the non-emergency 101 number.
Residents have been reminded to make necessary preparations, including arranging for any required medicines or the relocation of pets from their addresses.
