A street in Bridlington that was evacuated yesterday has returned to normality after what has been described as ‘deja vu’ by one resident.
Yesterday’s pre-planned operation by the Humberside Police on Oxford Street, in Bridlington had resulted in the evacuation of houses in on the quiet street, as well as in neighbouring Cambridge Street.
The operation resulted in the arrest of a 61-year-old man.
A resident on Oxford Street who spoke exclusively to the Echo, said it was a repeat scene of an event that happened a few years ago.
“Several houses were evacuated near to the address that police had attended – it was deja vu – the same as what had happened here several years ago.
“I understand they attended a man’s house earlier yesterday morning and subsequently arrested him.
“The bomb disposal teams arrived mid afternoon and residents were restricted from going back to their properties for several hours.”
The operation was carried out due to reports of potentially controlled chemicals being present at the address.
Specialist officers, along with partners from Humberside Fire and Rescue Service and East Riding of Yorkshire Council were also in attendance at the property to ensure the safety of the community.
As a precautionary measure, the surrounding houses were evacuated, and a number of EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) officers were also in attendance to assess the situation.
Another Oxford Street resident described how he tried to return to his house on the street – describing the scene like a movie set.
“It was certainly very strange, something like you would seen in an action film.”
A temporary shelter was set up at Bridlington Spa to provide basic accommodation for those affected.
Residents were eventually allowed back to their homes at around 7pm last night (11 April).
Humberside police have arrested a 61-year-old man as a part of the operation and are currently investigating the case.
Chief Supt. Christine Wilson said; “I’d like to thank members of the community who temporarily evacuated their homes whilst we assessed the risks following a pre-planned operation on Oxford Street, Bridlington. Following the arrival of specialist officers, we have been able to confirm that the chemicals, while hazardous to those that handle them, pose no explosive risk to residents.
“While the risk to residents has been mitigated, the property is still a live crime scene, and as such a scene guard will be in place overnight. Our officers will return to the property tomorrow to continue with the examination of and subsequent safe removal of the chemicals.
“A 61-year-old man remains in our custody and is assisting us with our investigation. I’d like to thank all partners who played a part in today’s pre-planned operation, the residents for being so understanding, and the Bridlington Spa for providing temporary shelter.
“I’d also like to take this opportunity to reassure residents that incidents of this nature are extremely rare. Should anyone have any concerns about today’s events, we’d encourage you to speak to a police officer.
“Our dedicated neighbourhood staff will be back in your communities tomorrow to listen to concerns and to answer any questions.”
