Arrest made as exclusion zone lifted in Pitsea
Hazardous materials found during warrant execution
An exclusion zone established earlier today in Pitsea has been lifted following the discovery of hazardous materials during a warrant execution.
Officers attended a property on Rokescroft on the morning of 10th March after receiving a warrant, uncovering potentially dangerous materials on site.
To ensure the safety of nearby people, a 100-metre exclusion zone was set up, and parts of Southmayne and Pitsea Road were temporarily closed to traffic.
Specialist teams and Explosive Ordnance Disposal colleagues assessed the situation and made the materials safe before removing them. Residents have now been allowed to return to their homes following the brief disruption.
District Commander Chief Inspector Paul Hogben said:
“Public safety was our absolute priority today. Establishing the exclusion zone and evacuating around 100 properties was a necessary precaution to allow specialists to work quickly and safely. I am grateful to local residents for their patience and cooperation during an understandably concerning incident.
“One arrest was made swiftly, and we are not seeking anyone else at this time. Our investigation will continue, but there is no wider threat to the community.”
A 37-year-old man from Pitsea was arrested on suspicion of making or possessing explosives under suspicious circumstances and remains in custody.
Authorities have confirmed that the situation is not being treated as terrorism-related.