Dozens of people have been evacuated by bomb disposal units after ‘suspicious items’ were discovered in a Margate flat.
One man has been arrested and remains in custody. neighbors fear that a bag with a possible explosive device was discovered by police.
Four entire streets have been evacuated after fears around the flat in Rosedale Road in the seaside town.
Kent Police said the ‘precautionary measure’ began at around 4pm on Wednesday.
One resident Lisa said she had been evacuated to a hotel.
She told Metro: ‘My son opened the door to police they were hammering on the door, saying: “You’ve got to get out, the Ministry of defense are evacuating everyone”.
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‘It was like something out of a movie.
‘They’re saying it’s a bag with a possible bomb that’s in Rosedale road.
‘If it’s going to go off there’s nothing we can do about it. We’ve let the cat out so hopefully she won’t be blown away.
‘It’s all so out of the blue. ‘It is cold now so we have literally come away. But there are plenty of people still standing around.’
A cordon has been put in place and an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team from the Ministry of defense is at the scene.
Surrounding roads have been evacuated in Glencoe Road, Wharfedale Road and Malham Drive.
A statement from Dane Valley ward councillors says: ‘The police have been in contact with us this evening regarding their presence on Rosedale Road.
‘They have identified some items that require specialist examination, and as a precaution, a small number of nearby homes have been temporarily evacuated.
‘At this stage, there is no cause for concern, and the situation is being handled carefully and professionally.
‘If anyone who has been asked to leave their home needs assistance or support, please don’t hesitate to call or message.
‘There are also teams on site and at the evacuation point working hard to ensure everyone affected is safe and well looked after. Thank you for your patience and understanding.’
An evacuation point has been set up at Hartsdown Leisure center for any evacuated residents who have nowhere to go.