Specialist bomb disposal robots appeared on a quiet residential street in Greenfield, Oldham, following a large-scale evacuation on Sunday afternoon, April 26. Explosives teams responded to Chew Brook Drive after reports of suspicious items, searching a property and seizing several items for further testing.

Emergency Response and Evacuation

A cordon quickly enclosed the area, with fire crews, police officers, and explosives experts converging on the scene. Authorities established a 100-meter exclusion zone and evacuated nearby homes as a precaution. Remotely operated vehicles from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit inspected potential threats safely.

Multiple police vehicles, fire engines, and an EOD van filled the street, secured by police tape. The operation lasted approximately four hours, after which residents returned home and the cordon lifted.

Official Statements

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that EOD teams removed several items from the property for assessment, though details remain undisclosed.

Chief Inspector Ian Partington of Greater Manchester Police stated: “We would like to thank residents for their patience and co-operation today while we carried out our investigations alongside partners at the EOD and the fire service.”

A Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson added: “At just before 12pm today (Sunday 26 April), fire crews were called to support Greater Manchester Police on Chew Brook Drive, Greenfield. Fire engines from Chadderton, Hollins, and Mossley attended, along with specialist officers and technical rescue units. A cordon was established around the premises, and residents within the affected area were advised to remain indoors or were evacuated as a precaution. Firefighters worked closely with police, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, and other agencies to ensure public safety. Crews were in attendance for approximately four hours.”