A 28-year-old man has been sectioned under the Mental Health Act after explosive chemicals were discovered at a property in St Leonards, East Sussex, sparking a major emergency response and the evacuation of more than 70 residents along the seafront.
The discovery was made on Thursday, with emergency services sealing off part of the A259 Marina, where explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams were deployed to neutralise hazardous substances found inside the property.
Chemicals Neutralised, Controlled Burn Carried Out
Authorities confirmed that some of the chemicals discovered posed a threat to life, prompting the declaration of a major incident. The EOD team safely desensitised the volatile substances, which were then transferred to a skip for a controlled burn near the sea wall.
More than 500 additional canisters were found at the scene, though they are not believed to be explosive. Bomb disposal robots and officers in protective suits were seen conducting searches throughout the property and surrounding area.
No Terror Link or Drug Production Suspected
Despite speculation on social media, Sussex Police have stated that the incident is not being treated as terror-related. They have also ruled out links to mass drug production.
Instead, the man arrested at the scene on suspicion of producing illegal substances and making an explosive substance for an unlawful purpose has now been detained under mental health legislation.
Police and Public Response
Chief Inspector James Scott said on Saturday afternoon:
“From evidence gathered so far, there is no indication that the 28-year-old man arrested intended to cause harm either to himself or anybody else.
The scene is not safe until this search has been completed in full, and this will continue into tomorrow.”
Authorities say they cannot yet confirm when the 100-metre cordon will be lifted, though an update is expected later in the day.
Residents Displaced, Half Marathon in Doubt
A total of 73 residents have been evacuated and remain unable to return home. Many have been housed at a rest centre in the Royal Victoria Hotel, with support from Hastings Borough Council.
The ongoing cordon has cast doubt over the Hastings Half Marathon, due to pass through the affected area on Sunday.
Race organisers said:
“We do not want to cancel the race until the latest possible moment. Your safety, along with that of our supporters and volunteers, is our top priority. We appreciate your patience and support.”
Public Safety the Top Priority
Police reiterated that public safety remains paramount, and the area will not be reopened until it is fully declared safe. In a statement, they thanked residents for their understanding and patience during this complex and unsettling operation.
