Police commander issues update as army bomb squad take over house search after evacuation
Police ‘investigating potentially explosive substances’
Police chiefs who ordered the evacuation of scores of homes in Sheffield say they took the decision while investigating potentially explosive substances at a house at the centre of the exclusion zone.
Assistant Chief Constable Ian Proffitt, of South Yorkshire Police, has issued an update on the situation in a statement following the evacuation of homes in High Green, last night.
He said that the decision to evacuate followed the discovery of additional items in a concealed area in the property, on Mapplebeck Road.
And he confirmed that the army’s bomb disposal experts were now leading the search.
He said: “As a cordon remains in place on Mapplebeck Road in High Green, in Sheffield, we do not underestimate the impact on local residents. We understand you’ll have many questions about why this has happened.
“There’s been a police presence at the house since Friday, as part of an investigation into potentially explosive substances.
“So, since Friday, we ‘ve been working closely with other emergency services the local authorities, the local authority, and other specialist agencies. The search, led by specialists, has been carefully progressing to ensure that our actions to not create risks to lives or to property.
“Yesterday afternoon, following the discovery of additional items in a concealed area, the evacuation became necessary. We do not take these decisions lightly and consult with experts to ensure we are taking the right actions to keep people safe.”
He said Sheffield Council has set up a contact point for displaced residents, arranging accommodation for those who need it.
He added: “The army’s explosive ordnance team are now leading the search, and while it’s imperative they work safely, they are working as quickly as they can and will advise us when it is safe for residents to return home.”
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