A significant security operation is unfolding in Derby, where the Army has been called in to conduct a controlled detonation after the discovery of potentially dangerous materials. The incident has led to the precautionary evacuation of approximately 200 households across seven residential streets.
Major Precautionary Evacuation Underway
Derbyshire Police initiated the large-scale evacuation on Thursday, December 4, 2025, after executing a warrant at a property on Vulcan Street. Acting on intelligence regarding potentially explosive materials, officers swiftly moved to ensure public safety. Residents were advised to gather essential items, including pets and medication, as they were told to expect to be out of their homes for up to 24 hours.
Two men, aged in their 40s and 50s, were arrested at the scene on suspicion of explosives offences. Both individuals remain in police custody for questioning. Authorities have stressed that the incident is not currently being treated as terrorism-related and that there is no wider risk to the community beyond the immediate cordon.
Army Bomb Squad Takes Control
The Army's Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was deployed to manage the situation. A police spokesperson informed residents, "Those in the Vulcan Street area may hear a bang shortly – this is controlled and is part of the work being carried out by the Army’s Explosive Ordnance Division." The controlled detonation is a standard procedure to safely neutralise hazardous materials.
The evacuation zone encompasses seven streets in their entirety or in part:
- Cambridge Street (at Reeves Road and Shaftesbury Crescent)
- Shaftesbury Crescent (full length)
- Vulcan Street (full length)
- Reeves Road (full length)
- Harrington Street (from Holcombe Street to Vulcan Street)
- Baseball Drive (to Colombo Street)
Community Response and Support
For those displaced by the operation, an initial rest centre has been established at the Salvation Army building on Omaston Road. The police have reiterated that the evacuations are purely a precautionary measure designed to guarantee the safety of everyone in the vicinity while the Army experts complete their work.
The situation remains dynamic, with emergency services maintaining a strong presence in the area. Further updates are expected as the Army's operation concludes and residents are given the all-clear to return to their properties.
