Christchurch, Crime | Posted on June 18th, 2026 | return to news

Cordons at Christchurch property following explosives discovery

Dorset Police are maintaining the cordon around the property whilst searches continue, with two people arrested over firearms offences.

A cordon is in place around a property in Suffolk Avenue following the discovery of suspected explosive items. Two people have been charged.

The devices were discovered at around 9.35am on Monday 15 June while officers were conducting arrest enquiries.

The initial suspected explosive device was removed from the property by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team. The cordon is still in place as a precaution for the safety of members of the public while further extensive searches of the address are carried out.

During the ongoing search activity, officers found further possible explosive devices, which meant that additional precautionary action had to be taken to ensure they were made safe.

A man and woman in their 60s and a man in his 30s were arrested in connection with the incident.

The woman in her 60s and the man in his 30s have now been charged with possession of an offensive weapon in a private place, failing to comply with shotgun certificates, failing to comply with firearm certificates and possessing an explosive substance with intent to endanger or cause injury or damage to property.

They are both due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 18 June.

The arrested man in his 60s remains in custody and has been taken to hospital for treatment for an unrelated medical matter.

Detective Superintendent Andy Bell, of Dorset Police, said: “I know this has had a significant impact on the local community with a small number of properties in the immediate vicinity evacuated.

“We understand residents’ concerns and we have been working with BCP Council to support affected residents and to provide support about the ongoing situation.

“We would like to reassure [the public[ that there is no wider threat to [them] and we have done everything we can to minimise disruption and keep people safe.

“The cordon remains in place at this time while we continue our searches. Due to the nature of the items that have been found over recent days, we have had to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of those involved and the wider community.

“We would like to thank the community for their patience while the cordon is in place. We absolutely recognise that it is disruptive and impactive and we are working as quickly as we can to reduce the impact on residents.”