A suspicious rucksack that sparked a major emergency response in Swindon has been declared safe by bomb disposal experts.
Around 50 residents were evacuated from their homes in the Meadowcroft area this morning (Tuesday) after concerns were raised about a bag on the pavement.
Fearing the item could contain explosives, police put cordons in place at around 8.30am. A fire officer and ambulance operational commander were sent to the scene.
A local man told Wiltshire 999s that he “rummaged” through the rucksack after noticing it during his dog walk. He found that it contained a tubes of batteries and copper wiring.
Unconcerned about the discovery, he left the bag in situ – thinking someone may return to collect it.
Sometime later it was reported to Wiltshire Police, who launched an investigation into the suspicious item and began evacuating nearby properties.
Stratton St Margaret Parish Council opened Meadowcroft Community Centre to accommodate displaced residents, while nearby Ruskin Junior School was also placed into lockdown, with pupils kept inside while emergency services assessed the risk.
At around 10.30am a bomb disposal robot was deployed, as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team examined the rucksack.
Wiltshire Police have since confirmed that the item was assessed and declared non-suspicious.
In an update, a force spokesperson said: “Emergency services responded to reports at around 8.30am this morning (13/10) that a suspicious package had been located in Upper Stratton, Swindon.
“A cordon was put in place as a precaution and around 50 residents evacuated from their homes.
“An Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team attended the scene to assess the item, which has now been declared non-suspicious.
“We would like to thank local residents for their patience and cooperation while the incident was dealt with.
“If you do find a suspicious package, please call 999 immediately. Maintain a safe distance and warn others in the area.”
