Thames Valley Police have arrested a man following the discovery of three suspicious packages in Reading town centre on Saturday evening (July 25). The packages prompted a major emergency response involving police officers and an Army bomb disposal unit.
Three Suspicious Packages Found
Police were first called to a package outside The Botanist bar and restaurant on King Street at around 6pm. Two more packages were later discovered: the second outside McDonald's on Friar Street at about 9pm, and the third outside The Hope Tap Wetherspoons pub on Friar Street at around 10.30pm.
Emergency services cordoned off the affected areas while an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit attended as a precaution. The objects were safely removed, and the cordons have since been lifted, though some traffic disruption may continue.
Police Investigation and Arrest
Police confirmed a man has been arrested and enquiries are ongoing. Detectives believe the three incidents may be linked and are pursuing several lines of inquiry. In an update on Sunday, Thames Valley Police stated: "Emergency services responded to an incident on Saturday evening... involving three suspicious packages in Reading city centre." The statement added that officers promptly attended all three scenes, established cordons, and safely removed the objects.
Public Reassurance and Appeal
Superintendent Rachel Sykes said additional officers would remain in the town centre to reassure the public. She stated: "Additional patrols will be taking place in the area today to provide reassurance. The area is safe, but if you have any concerns, please speak to one of our officers while they are out on patrol." She also thanked the public for their cooperation during the investigation.
No further details about the arrested man or the nature of the packages have been released. Police have appealed for anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.
