‘Explosions’ in house raid

no connections to the Manchester bombing at the city’s Arena which claimed 22 lives and left dozens more badly hurt.

The spokeswoman added: “The public may have heard loud bangs at the time that police entered the property. We would like to reassurance you that this was part of the method of entry to gain access to the property.

“We understand that people may have concerns as a result of this activity and we are grateful for the patience and understanding of the public while these enquiries are carried out.”

The drama sparked a response on social media.

Raj Singh said: “People on Facebook were saying they heard a bang noise which could be an explosion. I didn’t hear it myself – I just came down because my grandma lives on Everard Street.

“When I turned up there were loads of police blocking the road and vans parked up and armed police with guns guarding the street.”

Justyna Melnykowicz added: “It was the sound that I’ve never heard before.”

Teenager Georgia Scaife, 13, who lives in Everard Street, said: “About 40 or 50 seconds after a loud bang the police were here and I thought it was strange they were here so quickly.”

A mum-of-five, who asked not to be named, said: “My brother lives on College Street East and he felt his whole house shake with the bang. When I arrived there were police in balaclavas.”

People living in Rudding Street were ordered to stay in their homes for around half-an-hour in the immediate aftermath of the raid. Police counter terrorist operation in Ellison and Rudding Street, Crosland Moor. Armed police in a back alley leading off Rudding Street