A man arrested after explosive chemicals sparked the evacuation of seafront properties in East Sussex has been sectioned amid mental health concerns.
More than 70 people have been unable to return home to the Marina in St Leonards since the discovery on Thursday.
Chemicals found in the property were ‘desensitised’ so they could be put into a skip for a controlled burn beside the sea wall.
Another 500 cannisters contained unknown chemicals, which are not thought to be explosive.
Police do not believe this to be terror-related, despite speculation on social media that it could be linked to the Hastings Half Marathon, which is due to pass through the area currently cordoned off on Sunday.
Investigators also do not believe this is linked to the mass-production of drugs.
Instead, a 28-year-old man – arrested on suspicion of producing illegal substances and making an explosive substance for an unlawful purpose – has been detained under the mental health act.
Also known as being ‘sectioned’, this means he will have to stay in hospital until he is deemed medically suitable for release.
On Saturday afternoon, Chief Inspector James Scott said: ‘From evidence gathered so far, there is no indication that the 28-year-old man arrested intended to cause harm either to himself of anybody else.
‘We cannot put an exact timeframe of when the cordon will be reduced and residents can return to their homes but we should know more late afternoon.
‘We believe a decision on the half marathon will be made around this time.’
The half marathon organisers said: ‘We do not want to cancel the race until the latest possible moment, so we can allow it to go ahead if possible.
‘Your safety, along with that of our supporters and volunteers is our top priority.
‘We appreciate your patience and support as we work to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all.
‘In agreement with the authorities, we are continuing with course setup while we assess the situation further.’
Bomb disposal robots and teams clad in protective gear have been spotted on the scene near where the chemicals were found.
In a statement on Saturday morning, police said: ‘On Friday afternoon, the explosive ordnance disposal team desensitised the chemicals found in the property on the A259 Marina and they are conducting a thorough search of the property for any further hazardous material.
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‘The scene is not safe until this search has been completed in full and this will continue into tomorrow.
‘Public safety is our priority and the 100-metre cordon remains in place.
‘We will allow residents to return to their homes as soon as it is safe for them to do so.
‘We understand how unsettling it is for the 73 people displaced, but thank the public for their patience and understanding. We continue to liaise with Hastings borough council at the rest centre at Royal Victoria hotel.’
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