A significant security operation is underway in the English city of Derby, where authorities have ordered the evacuation of approximately 200 homes following the arrest of two men suspected of explosives-related crimes.
Mass Evacuation and Arrests
Derbyshire Police declared a major incident after detaining two suspects, aged in their forties and fifties, at a property on Vulcan Street. The men remain in police custody. The operation was launched after officers received intelligence concerning suspicious "materials" found at the address.
Emergency services, including the Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and the East Midlands Ambulance Service, have cordoned off the area. Police are conducting a door-to-door evacuation as a precautionary measure while experts assess the materials. Residents within the affected zone have been told to prepare to be away from their homes for at least 24 hours.
Streets Affected and Support for Residents
The evacuation encompasses a large residential area. The streets being cleared include:
- Shaftsbury Crescent
- Vulcan Street
- Reeves Road
- Harrington Street (from Holcombe Street to Vulcan Street)
- Baseball Drive to Colombo Street
- Parts of Cambridge Street
Authorities have established a rest centre for displaced residents at the Salvation Army building on Osmaston Road, operated by Derby City Council. People have been advised to make necessary arrangements for essential medication and pets.
No Terrorism Link, Says Police
In a crucial update, Derbyshire Police have moved to reassure the public. "This is not being investigated as a terrorism incident," a statement read. The force emphasized that there is no wider threat to the community and that the evacuations are purely a safety precaution.
Residents are urged to follow official police social media channels for continuous updates or contact the non-emergency line for the latest information. The situation remains dynamic as multiple agencies work to resolve the incident safely.
