Two more people have been arrested as detectives continue an investigation into potential explosive substances discovered at a property in Sheffield.

Police had been present at a house on Mapplebeck Road, High Green, since Friday (Sep 11), while a careful forensic search was conducted by specialist officers.

A 36-year-old woman was charged with an offence under Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act 1883 and appeared in court on Monday (Sep 14), where she was remanded in custody.

On Tuesday (Sep 15), residents were evacuated from nearby properties as a safety precaution following concerns over an explosive substance.

A 100-metre cordon was put in place around the house, with road closures affecting Mapplebeck Road, Griffiths Road, School Road, Worrall Road, Beechwood Road, Hawthorne Road, Entwhistle Road and Greenwood Road.

South Yorkshire Police said the evacuation followed a discovery that afternoon and was necessary to allow emergency services and specialists to ensure the area was safe.

No injuries were reported.

Dozens of evacuated residents continue to be affected by an ongoing incident in the High Green area of Sheffield, centred around an investigation into potentially explosive substances | Iconic Media Group

placeholder image — Dozens of evacuated residents continue to be affected by an ongoing incident in the High Green area of Sheffield, centred around an investigation into potentially explosive substances | Iconic Media Group

On Wednesday (Sep 16), police said the cordon was expected to remain in place while emergency services and specialist agencies continued their work.

A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police said: “The police cordon on Mapplebeck Road, High Green, is expected to remain in place throughout today while emergency services and specialist agencies continue their work to ensure the affected property and surrounding homes are safe.

“We don’t underestimate the impact this has had on those affected and want to thank residents for their continued patience, understanding and cooperation.

“Throughout this incident, emergency services, the local authority, health partners and other agencies have been working closely together to support residents.

“This has included providing assistance for those requiring medication or healthcare support, and arranging accommodation for anyone unable to stay with family or friends.

“We understand how challenging this situation is for local people and remain committed to ensuring everyone affected receives the support they need while this important safety work continues.”

The search at the Mapplebeck Road property, led by the Army’s Explosive Ordnance Team, concluded on Wednesday.

Specialists recovered suspected chemicals, drugs and weapons, and police said there was no longer a risk to nearby properties or people.

Detectives have since made two further arrests as part of the investigation.

A man in his 60s and a woman in her 50s were arrested under Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act and on suspicion of drug offences.

They have been bailed pending further enquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Aneela Khalil-Khan, who is leading the investigation, said: “While one suspect has been charged and two more have been questioned, our investigation is very much ongoing.

“While we are aware of the public and media interest in this operation, we are limited in what we can say due to the active court proceedings. We remind the public to avoid speculating on social media.

“What I can say is that our priority throughout has been keeping the public safe.”

Enquiries remain ongoing.