Bristol Terror Arrest Leads to Evacuation After Suspicious Item Discovery
A significant counter-terrorism operation in Bristol has resulted in the arrest of a 21-year-old man and the evacuation of nearby residents following the discovery of a suspicious item. The incident unfolded in the Horfield area of the city, where a coordinated police presence was established early on Tuesday, January 20.
Arrest and Evacuation Details
The man was taken into custody on suspicion of attempting to join a proscribed organisation, specifically Daesh, contrary to Section 11 of the Terrorism Act 2000. The operation was led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE), with support from Counter Terrorism Policing South West (CTPSW) and Avon and Somerset Police.
During a search of a property on Francombe Grove, officers uncovered what has been described as a suspicious item. As a precautionary safety measure, a small number of residents in adjacent properties were advised to evacuate their homes. The area has been cordoned off by police while the object is being examined by specialists.
Police Response and Community Reassurance
Chief Inspector Keith Smith of Avon and Somerset Police addressed public concerns, stating: We appreciate arrests of this nature can cause concern in the local community, but we'd like to reassure everybody this was part of a pre-planned operation by our colleagues at Counter Terrorism Policing South East.
He added: To ensure the public's safety a cordon is now in place around a property while an object is assessed. A small number of people in nearby properties have been asked to leave their homes as a precaution. We appreciate the local community's understanding while police activity takes place.
A representative for CTPSE confirmed the arrest and explained: Due to a suspicious item found inside a residential property during search activity, officers have cordoned off the area as a precaution while the item is assessed.
Ongoing Investigation and Increased Presence
The arrested individual remains in police custody as investigations continue. Authorities have warned that residents in the Horfield area may notice an increased police presence while the operation is ongoing. The police have emphasised that this was a pre-planned operation and have urged anyone with relevant information or concerns to come forward and speak to officers on the ground.
The discovery of the suspicious item has heightened security measures in the neighbourhood, with the cordon expected to remain in place until the item has been fully assessed and deemed safe. This incident underscores the ongoing vigilance required in counter-terrorism efforts across the UK.
