**Army bomb squad deployed in South Yorkshire as residents evacuated**
Hundreds of residents have been evacuated and an army bomb squad has been deployed at an address in South Yorkshire. South Yorkshire Police established a 100-metre cordon around a property in Grimethorpe, Barnsley, on Wednesday morning after “a number of suspicious items” were found as police executed a warrant on Brierley Road.
A 58-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of offences under the Firearms Act and remains in custody. Emergency services, including the army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team and other partners, remain in the area.
Road closures and disruptions in public transport are expected, with residents likely to be evacuated for at least 48 hours. Barnsley Council has opened a rest centre at St Luke’s Church for residents who don’t have anywhere else to go during the evacuation.
Local resident Lee Crisp expressed his frustration at being unable to leave for work due to the police cordon. “As you can see there is the bomb disposal team at the bottom of the street – no way we are getting off,” he told the BBC. “It’s having an impact – I’m losing out on money, overtime as well.”
Assistant Chief Constable David Hartley emphasized the importance of public safety during the investigation, thanking local residents for their patience and understanding. Coun Sir Steve Houghton CBE, Leader of Barnsley Council, urged local people to follow police advice to keep themselves and their families safe.
The situation remains ongoing as authorities work to ensure the safety and security of the area. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.