A 28-year-old man was arrested in St Leonards On Sea, Sussex, after police found explosive, life-threatening chemicals in a property. A major incident was declared, leading to the evacuation of 42 nearby homes. Authorities confirmed it is not terror-related.

A man has been arrested following the discovery of "life-threatening" explosive chemicals inside a property along the seafront in Sussex, according to police reports.

Officers visited the property on the A259 Marina in St Leonards On Sea on Thursday and confirmed the presence of chemicals that are classified as "explosive" and "pose a threat to life." As a result, a major incident has been declared, although authorities have stated that it is not being treated as terror-related.

Residents within a 100-meter radius, covering Caves Road, Sussex Road, and West Hill Road, were urged to evacuate their homes. A total of 42 properties were affected, and roads in the area have been closed to ensure public safety. A "rest centre" has been established at the Royal Victoria Hotel, close to the cordon, to provide shelter for displaced residents.

A spokesperson for Sussex Police stated, "A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of producing illegal substances and making an explosive substance for an unlawful purpose. He remains in custody at this time."

Superintendent Michelle Palmer-Harris commented on the situation, saying, "This is a complex but isolated incident, being supported by multiple agencies, resulting in the necessary evacuation of properties immediately surrounding the address for safety reasons. I would like to thank those residents affected and the wider community in St Leonards for their patience and support. The declaration of a major incident allows emergency services and other partner agencies to work together effectively to keep the public safe."

Helena Dollimore, the Labour MP for Hastings and Rye, described the incident as "troubling" for the local community. She advised, "The best thing we can do is to stay away from the area, and I would encourage others to do that."