Unknown event in Essex, Southend-On-Sea area, United Kingdom on Mon 12th February 2024

Police have given an update to members of the public after Southend Police Station was evacuated as two "unexploded devices" were identified.

The police station, in Victoria Avenue close to the city centre, was closed and evacuated this afternoon to allow a specialist bomb disposal unit to safely dispose of an unexploded device.

Members of the public were told not to visit the station if they wanted to speak to police in Southend today.

A large cordon was set up outside the station, with police tape outside the building and across the Civic Centre fountain. 

The cordon was taken down earlier this evening and staff were moved back to the station, having been evacuated to the Civic Centre.

The force has now revealed two potential unexploded devices had been identified.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Thanks for your patience while we made sure Southend Police Station was safe.

"Two potential unexploded devices were identified at the station, and after we evacuated the building the explosive ordnance disposal unit disposed of both objects.

"We have now lifted the cordon in place at the station.

"If you think you have found an unexploded object, do not move it and always call 999 to make sure it is disposed of by trained specialists."

The objects had been brought to the station by a member of the public, to be safely disposed of, the force confirmed.