Bomb squad in Borehamwood after suspicious packages sent to council leader

Roads closed and buildings evacuated after packages addressed to Jeremy Newmark spark security alert

A bomb disposal robot in Borehamwood this evening.
A bomb disposal robot in Borehamwood this evening.

Several roads have been closed off and buildings evacuated in Borehamwood after two suspicious packages were sent to Hertsmere Council leader Jeremy Newmark, Jewish News understands.

It’s believed that the Labour councillor had recently been the subject of a death threat that is still being investigated by police.

He was not at the civic centre today when the items arrived but council staff immediately alerted emergency services.

The incident began at around 4pm when bomb disposal experts were called.

Police asked the public to avoid the area and said road closures remain in place around Shenley Road, Manor Road and Studio Way. Classes at The Venue sports centre have been cancelled.

Herts Police told Jewish News: “Police were called at 2.43pm following reports of two suspicious envelopes found at Hertsmere Borough Council offices in Borehamwood. Response officers attended and for a short period a cordon was put in place around the location as a precaution. Following further examination by specialist officers, it was established that the items were non-hazardous and origin of the letters was entirely legitimate. We take reports of suspicious or unidentified items seriously and launched a proportionate response to ensure the safety of the public. We would like to thank residents for their cooperation.”

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