A significant security breach has shaken the coastal city of Hove after an individual unlawfully entered the private residence of Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden.
The incident, which occurred on a quiet residential street, prompted an immediate and substantial response from Sussex Police. Authorities confirmed that the individual gained access to the property but have not disclosed the exact circumstances of the entry.
Mr Dowden, who serves as both Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State in the Cabinet Office, was not present at the property during the security breach. This fact has raised serious questions about the protection of high-profile government figures' private residences.
Sussex Police have launched a thorough investigation into the matter, with officers conducting door-to-door inquiries and examining local CCTV footage. Despite these efforts, the suspect remains at large, and police have not made any arrests in connection with the incident.
A spokesperson for the force provided a brief statement: "We were called to a report of a suspicious incident at a property in Hove. The incident is being investigated and no arrests have been made at this time."
The breach has sparked concerns among security experts about the protection arrangements for senior ministers outside of their official government residences. This incident follows heightened security alerts for politicians across the UK in recent months.
Local residents expressed shock at the security operation that unfolded in their typically peaceful neighbourhood. One neighbour described seeing multiple police vehicles and officers securing the area following the incident.
Government officials have declined to comment on whether this security breach will lead to a review of protection measures for senior ministers' private homes. The investigation continues as authorities work to identify and locate the individual responsible.
