Residents in Margate were forced to evacuate their homes last night following reports of ‘suspicious items’ found inside a flat, leading to a police cordon being established and a bomb squad being summoned for inspection. Kent Police took action after receiving concerns about the contents of a flat on Rosedale Road, resulting in the evacuation of residents from four streets, including Glencoe Road, Wharfedale Road, and Malham Drive. One individual was arrested in connection with the incident.
Local resident Liam John, 28, shared his experience, stating that police instructed him to evacuate after discovering suspicious items in a nearby property, causing shock among residents at the presence of extensive police and bomb squad personnel. Affected residents were directed to seek shelter at Hartsdown Leisure Centre due to the evacuation.
Councillor Jack Packman advised residents to seek temporary accommodation with family or friends if possible, with Thanet District Council setting up an evacuation point at Hartsdown Leisure Centre to provide support. Packman reassured the public that the situation was being handled with care and professionalism, emphasizing that there was no immediate cause for concern.
Kent Police confirmed the arrest of an individual in connection with the incident and the ongoing presence of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team from the Ministry of Defence at the scene. The affected roads in Margate were managed by Thanet District Council, with support provided at Hartsdown Leisure Centre.
Kent Police issued a statement outlining the evacuation of residents from four roads in Margate following concerns about a property containing suspicious items. The precautionary measures were initiated after a report was made about items inside a flat on Rosedale Road, prompting the deployment of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team and Kent Fire and Rescue Service crews to the scene.