Bomb squad triple alert
MP urges transparency over ‘hazardous substances’
An MP has demanded more information from police after the bomb squad was called to three “hazardous substance” incidents within a mile’s radius.
David Linden has asked officers for an “urgent briefing” on the scope of their investigations after substances were found at separate residential properties in shettleston, Glasgow, in the past six months.
On Monday, officers discovered potentially hazardous substances at a property on Old shettleston road.
A man, 42, was charged with an explosive substances offence, and one charge under the misuse of drugs act. he made no plea at Glasgow sheriff court on Wednesday and was remanded in custody.
Police told the public there was “no wider threat” but hours later a bomb squad attended the scene.
It comes after suspected hazardous substances were found nearby in August and November.
Police say there is “nothing to
suggest” the incidents are linked.
Linden is now calling for transparency from Police scotland. The SNP MP for Glasgow east said: “This is not the first time my constituents have been concerned by reports of potentially hazardous substances in the area. I have reached out to Police scotland and I am seeking an urgent briefing on the scope of their investigations.
“I fully appreciate the police need to get on with their inquiries but this has to be balanced by reassuring residents as to their own safety.” Last August, officers were called to a flat on Altyre street after a potentially hazardous substance was found. residents were evacuated overnight and a bomb disposal team was called.
During the evacuation, seven officers and a scottish Police Authority forensic service employee took unwell and were given medical treatment.
Darren Querns, 34, of Glasgow, was arrested and charged with culpable and reckless conduct to the danger of life, stalking, behaving in a threatening or abusive manner and drug possession. Querns was fully committed, awaiting trial.
Three months later, less than half a mile away on shettleston road, emergency services were called to a property following reports of a fire on November 14. It was confirmed a potentially hazardous substance was identified and residents were evacuated.
Locals reported a “fishy smell” as a specialist hazmat unit attended the scene. The substance was analysed but found not to appear to be harmful. No one was arrested.
The third incident on Monday happened less than 500m away from the previous call-outs.
The Ministry of Defence has been asked for comment.
I am seeking an urgent briefing from police
DAVID LINDEN WANTS TO REASSURE LOCALS