Bomb disposal experts have carried out extensive searches of several properties in Derby, following a major police operation that led to the evacuation of more than 200 homes. Two Polish men remain in police custody, being questioned in connection with suspected explosives offences.
Large-Scale Evacuation and Ongoing Searches
Derbyshire Police confirmed that searches are continuing at addresses in and around Vulcan Street in the Normanton area. The large-scale evacuation was ordered yesterday as a precautionary measure, with residents offered hotel accommodation. A police cordon remains firmly in place, and people have been told they will not be allowed to return to their properties today until further notice.
The two detained men, aged in their 40s and 50s, were arrested during a raid on a Vulcan Street address. Police stated they were "acting on intelligence about materials at that address". A white van linked to the property was also seized by officers.
Community Support and Controlled Explosion
Authorities have established multiple support points for affected residents. The Pakistani Community Centre is open as a contact point, while Derby City Council has deployed public protection and neighbourhood officers. Evacuated individuals with concerns about medication can visit Shaftesbury Crescent, where medical professionals are on hand.
Police confirmed that a controlled explosion was conducted yesterday afternoon as part of the operation. Superintendent Rebecca Webster emphasised that the incident is not being treated as terrorism-related and stated there is no wider risk to the community.
Impact on Local Residents
The sudden evacuation left many residents in shock. Esteban Duda, a teenager from Holcombe Street, described being woken by banging on his door and shouts about a bomb. "I was shocked and surprised," he said. "I got out of the house, and I talked to all the residents around the area, everybody was telling me there was a bomb."
Amy Anderson, who is six months pregnant and lives on Shaftesbury Crescent, spent the night at her mother's house. She described feeling "in limbo", uncertain when she might be able to return home.
The Salvation Army on Osmaston Road was prepared to act as a rest centre for displaced households, with volunteers on standby through the night.
Full List of Evacuated Streets
The evacuation zone encompasses seven roads, either partially or in full:
- Shaftesbury Crescent (in its entirety)
- Vulcan Street (in its entirety)
- Reeves Road (in its entirety)
- Harrington Street (from Holcombe Street to Vulcan Street)
- Baseball Drive (to Colombo Street)
- Cambridge Street (at Reeves Road and Shaftesbury Crescent)
A multi-agency meeting is scheduled for 1pm today to reassess the situation, after which further public updates are expected. Police vans and cordons, with tape across the junction of Vulcan Street and Shaftesbury Crescent, are a visible presence in the neighbourhood.
