13 June 2024 , 17:46
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Army bomb disposal experts and police have swarmed a Conservative Party office in Horsham after a suspicious device was found.
Sussex Police and fire crews are also at the scene. It is believed a package was delivered to the Conservative Association in Gough House, Horsham yesterday.
The local Tory party office is used by the candidate for Horsham, Jeremy Quin, who confirmed he had received a "suspicious parcel". Nearby homes have also been evacuated this afternoon. He was local MP until Parliament was dissolved for the General Election.
Police later confirmed that the package was found to be safe and officers had been stood down. "Officers are reviewing whether there has been an offence committed in the sending of the package and this investigation is ongoing", they added.
In a statement, Mr Quin said: "After the receipt of a suspicious parcel at my Horsham office earlier today the Police decided that the incident should be escalated and specialists from the Explosive Ordinance Disposal team were called in. It is still under investigation but there is no cause for alarm and the incident is being thoroughly and professionally addressed.
Police have been seen at the scene"It's a huge privilege to engage in public service but sadly in the world in which we live incidents of this nature always have to be taken seriously. I am very grateful to the emergency services for their prompt actions and continuing work to ensure public safety."
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A spokesman for Sussex Police said earlier: "Police received a report of a suspicious package at a premises in Madeira Avenue, Horsham, at about 2.40pm this afternoon. Police and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team are currently at the scene. If anyone in the area has concerns, they can speak to an officer at the scene, or call 101." West Sussex Fire and Rescue have been approached for comment.