LONDON

A major incident has been declared in Derby, England, after around 200 homes were evacuated following the police arrest of two people on suspicion of explosives offenses.

Derbyshire Police said an “evacuation zone” was established after officers acted “on intelligence about materials at the address.”

Two men, one in his 40s and another in his 50s, have been arrested on suspicion of explosives offenses and remain in custody.

The force said it was working closely with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, East Midlands Ambulance Service, and Derby City Council.

“This is not being investigated as a terrorism incident; there is no wider risk to the community, and the evacuations are a precaution to ensure the safety of those in the area,” a spokesperson said.

Residents in the cordoned-off area have been advised to prepare to be away from their homes for up to 24 hours and to make arrangements for necessary medications or pets.

“Anyone who lives within the affected area is asked to prepare to be out of their homes for 24 hours and make preparations should they need medicines or require pets to be moved from an address,” police said.

A rest center for displaced residents has been set up.

Officers will be knocking on all properties within the evacuation zone, and police have asked anyone who leaves before they are contacted to inform the force.

“Updates will be placed on our force channels as and when they are able to be shared and these will be placed on the Derbyshire Constabulary Facebook page and news page of the force website,” the statement added.