Bomb scare in Southend: Man charged after abandoned bag sparks lockdown
Bag left at business park sparks panic
A 34-year-old man has been charged after causing a bomb hoax scare in Southend over the weekend. On Saturday, 13 July, police were scrambled to Victoria Business Park on Short Street when an unidentified bag was found at a commercial property.
Essex Police teamed up with fire, ambulance, and British Transport Police officers to quickly contain the area. Streets were cordoned off and nearby properties evacuated amid fears the bag could contain explosives.
Suspicious bag cleared, suspect arrested
After a tense investigation, the bag was declared safe. Officers detained Elsaid Omar, 34, of no fixed address, shortly afterwards. He now faces charges of communicating a bomb hoax.
Omar has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Southend-on-Sea Magistrates Court today, Monday 15 July.
Police praise public and emergency teams
Essex Police thanked the public for their patience during the brief shutdown in Southend city centre. The quick, coordinated response from emergency services ensured the safety of residents and workers in the area.
