Two men remain in police custody after a bomb squad destroyed potentially explosive substances found at a property in Stanley, County Durham.
Durham Constabulary said the substances were believed to have been used to make homemade fireworks. Officers discovered them while searching an address on Robert Terrace in the Shield Row area on Tuesday, 11 August.
Residents evacuated during police operation
Around 60 homes were evacuated while specialist officers carried out searches. Residents were directed to The Louisa Centre for assistance during the operation.
A cordon was placed around the address as police dealt with what they described as “potentially explosive substances”. The material was later recovered from the property and destroyed by the bomb squad.
Two men arrested as enquiries continue
A 71-year-old man and a 46-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of manufacturing ammunition without a licence. Durham Constabulary said both remained in custody on Wednesday, 12 August, while enquiries continued.
The force thanked local residents for their support and patience while officers carried out their initial enquiries. No further details about the investigation or any potential charges were included in the update.