Counter-terror police leading Leyland explosives investigation after suspicious chemicals found

Specialist counter-terrorism police have taken over an investigation after potential explosives were found inside a Leyland property.

A police cordon was put up after officers raided an address on Nursery Close at around 6am and it is expected to remain in place until tomorrow. People from nearby homes were told to leave as a precaution and have been taken to an evacuation centre.

A leading police officer confirmed “suspicious chemicals and potential explosive equipment” were found during the search and that the investigation is now being led by Counter Terrorism Policing North West (CTPNW).

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Speaking at a press conference, Superintendent Gary Crowe said that CTPNW was leading the investigation due to their expertise and skills but that it is “not currently being treated as a terrorist incident”. A 59-year-old man from Leyland arrested at the scene on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act remains in custody.

A large emergency service presence remains at the scene, with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and North West Ambulance Service among those assisting the response. Specialist bomb disposal teams are also in attendance and working to things safe.

Supt Crowe added that no other addresses or people are thought to be linked but refused to comment on how the raid first came about. He said: “As a precaution, several properties have been evacuated and a cordon remains in place. We have significant policing and emergency service resources present at the scene and we are asking people to avoid the area and find alternative routes where possible.

“It is expected that the searches are to be ongoing into tomorrow. Residents should expect some disruption while we continue our searches and I thank them for their cooperation and support so far.

“We appreciate this will be concerning for the community of Leyland but we want to assure residents we are working extremely hard with all our partners to make the address safe and bring the matter to a swift conclusion. Those people whose homes or businesses have been evacuated are being supported at an evacuation centre nearby.”