Man arrested on suspicion of possession of an explosive at Burnham

A man has been arrested by Thames Valley Police on suspicion of possession of an explosive in Burnham.

Just before 6.00am on Saturday 26th June 2016 police officers were called to an address in The Fairway, Burnham. A number of chemicals were discovered at the property. Residents at nearby properties had to be evacuated as a precautionary measure.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians were called to the scene to carry out controlled burning of the chemicals. Residents were allowed back into their properties at about midnight.

A 40 year old man was arrested on suspicion of wasting police time, making a false report to police, possession of class B drugs with intent to supply, concerned in the production of a class A drug and possess of a controlled explosive with the intent to endanger life/injure property.

Senior investigating officer, Supt Ed McLean said: ‘I would like to thank local residents for their cooperation and patience while we and our partner agencies carry out enquiries at the scene. I can understand that it was an inconvenience for residents to be evacuated yesterday, but their safety is our priority.

I would like to reassure the community that we are not linking the discovery of these chemicals to terrorism. The chemicals will be forensically examined to determine exactly what they are.

We are conducting a thorough investigation and although a scene watch will remain at property today there is no wider cordon in place and there is no danger to the public.

I would like to thank our partner agencies, South Buckinghamshire District Council, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, and the technicians from Explosive Ordnance Disposal, for their help in this investigation.

A special thanks also goes to Burnham Beeches Hotel who looked after those residents who had to be evacuated.‘