Homes in Goojerat Road evacuated as 'suspect package' found

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It is understood the package was sent to Goojerat Road Police Station this morning. 

The area has been sealed off by Essex Police and it is understood explosive experts are at the scene. 

Residents in Goojerat Road have been ordered to leave their homes. 

Streets off Goojerat Road are still accessible at the moment. 

An Essex Police spokesperson confirmed officers are at the scene, having been called shortly before 10.50am.

UPDATE 1.55pm

It is understood the package was taken to the police station by a man who found it while out walking his dog this morning. 

Army experts have examined the device, but could not confirm what it was.

A bomb disposal robot is now being used to find out what the package is. 

Suspect package update: man out walking his dog found the item and took it to the Goojerat police station. Robot looking at it now.

— Caroline Tilley (@CarolineTilley1) February 23, 2015

That's an official line for you right there. Homes still evacuated. Have heard controlled explosions.

— Caroline Tilley (@CarolineTilley1) February 23, 2015

UPDATE 2.40pm

Residents have not been allowed to return to their homes yet.

The cordon remains in place.

Officers are still examining the package.

UPDATE 2.50pm

The road has now reopened and people have been allowed to return to their homes.

UPDATE 4.15pm

A controlled explosion on the device was carried out just after 2pm. 

The object has been described as a foil package, with protruding electrical wires, but could not be identified. 

A spokesman for 621 Squadron, 11 EOD Regiment said: "Destroying the item in situ was the safest course of action in the circumstances.

"We would encourage the public to raise the alarm if they do have concerns about any suspect items they find and not to touch or move them.

"It is better to be safe than sorry."

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