Why police and Army have been visiting a crime scene in a Preston city centre alley for two weeks
A 43-year-old man has been arrested...
Police have revealed why they have been guarding a crime scene in a Preston alley for two weeks.
Those living in Union Street were intrigued by the constant presence of police in the city centre alley, off Friargate, with patrols parked outside a grey metal garage door for the past two weeks.
Curiosity gave way to alarm when the Army and fire crews began to join officers at the address on the cobbled street.
“They don't tell anyone what is happening,” said one resident. “I see them going in and out multiple times a day, along with the firefighters and army. It’s concerning. What’s going on?”
Lancashire Police have now confirmed an investigation has been ongoing at a property in Union Street and a 43-year-old man has been arrested.
Post photographer Neil Cross visited the scene this morning, where police have uncovered what is believed to be a city centre drugs lab.
The force said officers were called to the property after concerns were raised by fire crews. Chemicals and ‘equipment’ were discovered within the building, which have now been removed with the support of specialists from the Army.
Lancashire Police said the 43-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of producing a controlled drug and abstracting electricity. He has been released under investigation while enquiries continue.
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‘Not being treated as terrorism’
A police spokesperson told the Post: “We were contacted by our fire service colleagues who had concerns regarding a property on Union Street, Preston, at 8.10pm on Thursday, August 13.
“Our officers attended and found a number of chemicals and equipment within the building.
“An investigation is underway and a 43-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of producing a controlled drug and abstracting electricity. They have been released under investigation while enquiries continue.
“Arrangements were made with our partners to facilitate the safe removal of the items.
“The incident was not being treated as terrorism and there is no wider risk to the public.
“Our work has now been completed, and the property has been handed back to the local authority and the landlord.
“We would like to thank our partners for their support over the last two weeks.
“We would also like to thank anyone affected by the activity for their patience and understanding while we went about our work.”