A huge explosion erupted in downtown Rochdale this morning when a bomb squad carried out a controlled explosion on a “suspicious device.”
After the discovery of the object at about 3 o’clock in the morning, a severe reaction of the emergency services began. A large cordon was laid across a number of major roads as bomb disposal experts and police were dispatched to the scene.
Police said that when they first arrived, the officers were “confronted” with a man with a weapon. A 17-year-old man was detained.
Follow our live blog here for the latest updates on this incident
He has since been arrested on suspicion of crime, possession of an object with a blade and possession of a firearm with intent to provoke fear. He remains in custody to be questioned by detectives.
Photographs taken at the scene show a robot focusing on an object near a bus stop on Manchester Road. A forensic scientist was also caught filming a knife on the road, which is surrounded by evidence.
A huge cordon was set (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Bomb experts carried out a controlled explosion of the “suspicious object” this morning. He has since been confirmed as “unviable”, a spokesman for the Manchester Greater Manchester Police confirmed in an update.
Police officers remain on the cordon all day. Cordon remains at the crossroads of Manchester Road, Dane Street, Esplanade and the Gate of St. Mary.
Forensic scientist takes a picture of a knife on the road (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Dane Street’s Asda was closed all morning. Hopwood Hall College also had to close, although students remain on Easter vacation.
A GMP spokesman said: “At around 3.10am on Thursday, April 21, 2022, we received a report of suspicious circumstances on Dane Street, Rochdale. Officers were present and found an alleged suspicious object.
Bomb Disposal Experts (Image: Manchester Evening News)
“A cordon was placed as a precautionary measure and EOD was present and carried out a controlled explosion. The device has since been confirmed as unviable or suspicious.
“During the initial reaction, officers were confronted with a man with a weapon. A 17-year-old man was detained and arrested on suspicion of a crime, possession of an object with a blade and possession of a firearm in order to provoke fear. He is currently in custody. The investigation is ongoing. “
Explosives Disposal Officers Summoned to Site (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Read more of today’s top stories here
Read more related articles Read more related articles
Add Comment