Full Breakdown
Weston-Super-Mare Evacuation After Suspicious Substances Discovered
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Incident Overview
On September 30, police in Worle, a suburb of Weston-super-Mare, evacuated 153 homes after the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit was called to a property on Becket Road. Officers had arrested a man in his 70s on suspicion of fraud by false representation and, during a subsequent search, uncovered “suspicious substances and items.” The EOD established a 100-metre (328 ft) cordon around the site, tested the items and later destroyed them.
Background of the Investigation
The arrest formed part of an ongoing fraud investigation conducted by Avon and Somerset Police. The suspect, a 70-year-old man, was taken into custody after police linked him to false-representation offences. The discovery of the substances occurred only after the arrest, prompting the precautionary deployment of the bomb squad.
Timeline of Key Events (September 30)
- Afternoon: Police arrest the 70-year-old man on fraud charges at a Becket Road property.
- Later that afternoon: Search of the property reveals suspicious substances and items.
- Evening (around 7:30 pm): EOD arrives, sets up a 100-metre cordon and begins enquiries inside the property.
- 9:00 pm: Police spokesperson confirms 153 properties have been displaced and that support is being coordinated with North Somerset Council.
- 10:00 pm: Police update that the EOD has tested and destroyed the items; the cordon remains in place overnight while an in-depth search continues.
Data & Statistics
- 153 properties (including houses on Becket Road, Wesley Drive, Courtenay Walk, Becket Drive, Christian Close, The Larches, Cabot Way and Wynter Close) were ordered to evacuate.
- 100-metre cordon established around the affected block.
- One suspect (a man in his 70s) remains in police custody.
Official Statements & Responses
Avon and Somerset Police repeatedly emphasized public safety, stating that the EOD had “tested and destroyed” the discovered items.
North Somerset Council coordinated relief efforts, directing displaced residents to a refuge centre at Castle Batch Children’s Centre. The council later arranged for the centre to be relocated to The Campus in Weston-super-Mare and worked with NHS partners to support individuals requiring medical assistance.
Impact on Residents
The evacuation left many families without immediate access to pets, medication and other essential supplies. Police acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing that public safety remained the primary focus while support services were provided through the refuge centre.
What’s Next
Police indicated that searches of the property are ongoing and that the 100-metre cordon will remain in place overnight. The investigation into the fraud allegations and the nature of the suspicious substances continues, with further updates expected from Avon and Somerset Police.