Residents in a neighborhood were instructed to evacuate their homes after authorities found a suspicious item during the arrest of a 21-year-old man suspected of trying to join a banned group under the Terrorism Act 2000. A joint police operation involving officers from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE), Counter Terrorism Policing South West (CTPSW), and Avon and Somerset Police took place in Francombe Grove, Horfield, this morning. The search of a property led to the discovery of the object, prompting a precautionary evacuation of a few nearby residents.
The individual arrested is currently in police custody, according to reports from Bristol Live. The operation, coordinated by CTPSE, was carefully planned, and additional police presence will be visible in Horfield. Chief Inspector Keith Smith of Avon and Somerset Police reassured the community that the operation was part of a proactive effort by Counter Terrorism Policing South East to ensure public safety.
A spokesperson for CTPSE confirmed the arrest of a 21-year-old man from Bristol for allegedly attempting to join a banned organization, with support from Avon and Somerset Police and CTPSW. The ongoing investigation has prompted a cordon around the property where the suspicious item was found, as a safety measure. Residents in the vicinity may observe heightened police activity during this period.