Specialist bomb disposal robots appeared on a quiet residential street in Greenfield, Oldham, following a large-scale evacuation on Sunday afternoon, April 26. Emergency teams responded to Chew Brook Drive after reports of suspicious items at a local property.
Emergency Response and Evacuation
Explosives experts conducted a thorough search of the property, seizing several items for further laboratory testing. Authorities established a cordon and a 100-meter exclusion zone around the area. Firefighters, police officers, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units arrived swiftly, prompting the evacuation of nearby homes as a safety measure.
Images from the scene captured EOD robots—remotely operated vehicles designed to detect and examine potential hazards—navigating the street. Numerous police cars, fire engines, and an EOD van were present, with police tape securing the site during approximately four hours of assessments.
Residents returned to their homes once the operation concluded, and officials lifted the cordon without further incident.
Police and Fire Service Confirmation
Greater Manchester Police verified that EOD teams removed several items from the property for detailed evaluation, though specifics 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.”
