A bomb scare caused panic at a student block on Stanhope Road, Portsmouth, yesterday afternoon. Police responded swiftly after a suspicious object was reported at 4:18pm, prompting the evacuation of the building.
Emergency services established a cordon around the area to ensure public safety. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal team was called in and conducted a controlled explosion in nearby Victoria Park, safely away from the student accommodation.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident. Once the threat was neutralised, the cordon was lifted and students were allowed to return to the building.
The evacuation was a precautionary measure supported by Hampshire Police, South Central Ambulance Service, Hampshire Fire and Rescue, Portsmouth City Council, the University of Portsmouth, and The Student Housing Company.
A 20-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and is currently in police custody. Authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public as investigations continue.
Originally published by UKNIP.
