Two people have been formally charged with a range of firearms and explosives offences after a significant police operation in Christchurch, Dorset, led to the evacuation of local residents for several days. The charges follow the discovery of suspected explosive devices at a property in Suffolk Avenue earlier this week.
Dorset Police initially attended the address at approximately 9:30 BST on Monday, where an item believed to be an explosive was found. This discovery prompted immediate action, with dozens of homes within a 50-metre radius being evacuated as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety. Residents were unable to return to their properties until Thursday evening.
Jacqueline Davis, 60, and James Davis, 33, both from Christchurch, have been charged with offences including possession of an offensive weapon in a private place, failing to comply with shotgun and firearm certificates, and possessing an explosive substance with intent. Both appeared at Southampton Magistrates' Court and have been remanded in custody, with their next court appearance scheduled for 26 June. A third man, also in his 60s, has been charged with similar offences but is currently receiving hospital treatment for a medical issue.
The extensive operation saw bomb disposal experts deployed to the scene, meticulously working to make further suspected devices safe. The cordon, which had significantly disrupted the lives of local residents, was eventually lifted at 18:00 BST on Thursday, allowing people to return to their homes after a challenging period of uncertainty. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Graham of Dorset Police expressed gratitude to the community for their patience and understanding throughout the complex investigation.
Residents described the unusual nature of the incident in their typically quiet street. Clive King, a long-term resident, spoke of sleeping in his car while monitoring the scene, eager for a hot shower. Another resident, Roy Stacey, highlighted the unprecedented nature of the events, stating he had never witnessed anything similar in his time living there and was keen to get back to his pet cat. The police thanked residents for their support during what was described as a very challenging and complex search.