UPDATE: '˜Terror' as bomb squad called to Horsham

Police said officers sealed off a flat in Littlehaven Lane at 6.10pm after being called to a report of a man with a machete.

Sussex Police said: “On arrival, two men were arrested outside the property in Littlehaven Lane when they were challenged to leave by police.”

Officers then entered the flat and discovered two suspicious items.

A spokesman for Sussex Police said: “Photographs were taken and sent to Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel who advised that they should not be touched and attended the location to assess and decide on what action to take.

“Subsequently, it was found that there was no explosive content to the items.”

A resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said their family had lived in the road for 35 years and nothing like this had happened before.

They said: “At 7.30pm there was about six police vehicles, including a riot van and dog unit.

“Around 9.30pm to 10pm I noticed the whole street was shut off and what looked like bomb disposal had turned up.

“I went outside into the street and asked a police officer if we were safe, he said we weren’t in any danger but if that changed he would let us know, however he did ask us to remain inside incase anything happened.

“I saw them do what looked like a small controlled explosion in the back of the van, but about 11pm they all packed up and left.

“I asked one of the police officers if it was all over now and he said it was and it was “just a precaution” but overall it was pretty terrifying.”

Daniel Miles, of Manor Road, said: “At about 10pm I was making my way home, as I just live seconds away from where it took place, and me and my friend saw the bomb disposable van.

“I was worried because it was so near to home and also very surprised as nothing like that’s ever happened around this area.

“The police and bomb squad did a amazing job on controlling the issue.”

Detective chief inspector Tanya Jones said: “At the time, we were unsure about what the items were, but felt that it was best to be cautious and seek advice from our EOD colleagues. They advised that a full evacuation was not necessary and once they had visited the property themselves, confirmed that there was no risk.”

Police said two men, aged 27 and 30, both from Horsham, were arrested on suspicion of affray.

Both remain in custody.

The incident is the second the bomb squad has been called to in the Horsham district in 11 days.

On Thursday, May 12, the unit dealt with a rusty grenade which was found near Mill Pond Lake in Warnham.

Neighbours said they heard a bang as an explosion was carried out.

Related stories UPDATE: Explosion after ‘rusty grenade’ found in Warnham

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