**Bomb Squad Called to Llanelli as Homes Evacuated Amid Major Police Incident**
Residents in a Llanelli neighbourhood faced significant disruption on Wednesday afternoon after explosive experts were deployed to New Dock Road. The incident prompted an urgent evacuation of homes and closures of several local roads, throwing the usually tranquil area into a state of uncertainty and concern.
The response followed a police raid conducted by Dyfed-Powys Police, who descended on the residential street near the centre of the town. During the course of their operation, officers deemed it necessary to request assistance from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team. As a precaution, a substantial safety cordon spanning 100 metres was quickly established around the site.
A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed the seriousness of the situation, stating that the cordon was put in place for the protection of the public and to aid emergency services in their ongoing work. Local residents were advised to steer clear of the cordoned area and to adhere to police instructions, with officers remaining on site throughout the evening.
In response to the emergency, police ordered sections of several roads to be closed, specifically targeting the most affected areas. These include Trinity Terrace, Trinity Road, Copperworks Road, New Dock Road itself, and Marged Street. The closure of these key routes posed significant travel and access challenges for people living and working in the vicinity.
Residents whose homes fall within the 100-metre safety perimeter were approached directly by police and asked to evacuate temporarily. In an effort to support those displaced by the sudden developments, local authorities arranged for a rest centre to be set up at Llanelli Leisure Centre. The facility provided a safe haven for affected families as emergency services continued their work well into the evening.
A 57-year-old man has been taken into custody following the operation, on suspicion of offences under The Explosive Substances Act. He currently remains under police supervision as investigations continue. Law enforcement has yet to provide further details on the precise nature of the threats or substances involved, with the full circumstances of the incident still unravelling.
A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police reiterated the importance of following guidance at the scene, noting: “A 100-metre cordon is currently in place for public safety. EOD is on their way to the scene. Please follow the direction of officers at the scene for your safety.” As of Wednesday evening, police activity in the area remained ongoing, with residents urged to check for updates and heed further instructions.
Enquiries are also ongoing with the Ministry of Defence, given their responsibility for the EOD unit now present on the scene. It is not uncommon for incidents involving potentially explosive materials to involve a coordinated multi-agency response, and residents are reminded that the situation is being handled with the utmost care.
The abrupt arrival of specialised units and the scale of police response have left the local community in shock. Nevertheless, authorities have been quick to act, prioritising the welfare and security of the public throughout the day’s events. Updates are expected as the incident develops, with reassurance that every step is being taken to resolve the situation safely.
For now, Llanelli residents have been asked to avoid the area if possible and to remain patient as emergency services work to bring the incident to a safe conclusion. The public is encouraged to keep abreast of the latest information via official channels and to look after neighbours and loved ones who may have been affected by the evacuation.