Overview
- A major police operation began on Wednesday, July 29, when armed officers and a police helicopter attended Beechwood Court and detained a 47-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.
- Officers searching a Birkrig address later that day found a grenade-type item that Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialists assessed as a replica, prompting a precautionary evacuation of neighbouring flats whose residents were later allowed to return.
- EOD returned the following day and further properties were evacuated while searches continued, although reports that a nearby care home was evacuated and that the council arranged emergency accommodation remain unverified by police.
- Lancashire Police said they seized a number of items they believe to be air weapons that are not viable firearms, and after CPS consultation the suspect, named as John Pohlod, 47, was charged with making an explosive substance with intent to endanger life, two counts of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear, and affray.
- Police said the investigation is ongoing, asked anyone with information or footage to call 101 quoting log 0350 of July 29, and warned that officers will remain in the area as inquiries and court proceedings progress.