A bomb squad swiftly responded to a retail park in Swindon after suspected military ammunition was brought into one of the stores. The incident led to the cordoning off of Greenbridge Retail Park at approximately 10 am on Tuesday. Trained officers were dispatched to the scene to safely dispose of the items, according to the police.
Wiltshire Police’s spokesperson stated that a store at Greenbridge Retail Park had been cordoned off due to the discovery of suspected military ammunition. They mentioned that Explosive Ordnance Disposal was awaited to handle the safe disposal of the items. The rest of the retail park continued to operate normally, and further updates would be provided when necessary.
Following the discovery, several police vehicles were visible in the retail park’s car park. Two officers were stationed outside the Cancer Research UK store, adjacent to Boots. Additionally, Tapi Carpets & Floors, Currys, Next, and Smyths Toys are situated within the retail park.
The suspected military ammunition was reportedly handed over to Cancer Research UK store staff by a member of the public as part of a donation. As a safety measure, the police evacuated the store to ensure public safety. The items were subsequently removed safely, allowing the store to reopen. While appreciative of donations, the store emphasized that certain items cannot be accepted.
This incident follows a significant fire at the nearby Groundwell Trading Estate, where residents reported feeling a “huge explosion.” Bright orange flames and thick smoke were visible during the fire, prompting the dispatch of 12 fire engines and specialized vehicles from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue to address the blaze at the industrial estate.
The cause of the explosion and fire was deemed accidental, attributed to a printing machine malfunction. The Health & Safety Executive initiated further investigations into the incident.
