MAN CHARGED AFTER RIFLE AND GRENADE-TYPE DEVICE FOUND IN SKELMERSDALE

A 47-year-old man from Skelmersdale has been charged with making an explosive substance with intent to endanger life or injure, two offences of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear, and affray. Police responded to Beechwood Court on Wednesday 29 July at approximately 9am following a report that a man had been seen in possession of a rifle. The man was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm. Officers from Lancashire Police and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team conducted searches at a property in Birkrig, Skelmersdale, on Wednesday and Thursday 30 July.

During the search operation on the evening of 29 July at approximately 7:15pm, officers discovered a grenade-type device at an address in Birkrig. The EOD team assessed the device and determined it to be a replica. Residents in neighbouring properties were evacuated as a precaution during the search and assessment, but were permitted to return within hours. The operation involved the deployment of armed police and a police helicopter. A spokesperson for Lancashire Police acknowledged the concern such incidents may cause within the community and thanked local residents for their patience.

John Pohlod, 47, of Birkrig, has been remanded in custody and was due to appear at Preston Magistrates Court on 31 July. Police urged anyone with information about the incidents to contact them on 101, quoting log 0350 of 29 July. The investigation remains ongoing, with officers continuing to patrol the area.