Explosion Heard in Harefield as Police Investigate Suspicious Vehicle

A major police operation took place in Harefield on 20 March after a suspicious vehicle was identified at Salamander Quay. The incident led to a significant emergency response, with roads closed and specialist officers deployed.

a specialist team using a robot carried out a controlled explosion on a nearby vehicle

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a bomb disposal robot was used to carry out a controlled explosion on the vehicle. However, no explosives or dangerous items were found.

Inspector Fox from Harefield Safer Neighbourhood Team said the equipment used during the operation made an extremely loud noise, which may have caused concern among residents, but confirmed there was no bomb or other explosives. He thanked the public for their patience and understanding while officers carried out the investigation and reassured them that there were no further concerns or risks.

The operation caused disruption in the area, with Park Road and several surrounding streets closed for a number of hours. Police officers with sniffer dogs were seen searching nearby roads and public areas, though it is unclear whether they were looking for additional threats or gathering evidence related to the vehicle.

The London Ambulance Service was called to the scene at 1:39 pm, sending an incident response officer and members of their Hazardous Area Response Team. A spokesperson confirmed they responded alongside police but that no patients required treatment.

The Federal Republic of Germany Office of Defence Administration, United Kingdom, is headquartered in Harefield. The facility is responsible for the administrative and economic support of all Bundeswehr service members, agencies, and other facilities located in the United Kingdom. Although police have not provided specific details about why the incident prompted such a large-scale response, it is believed that the presence of this German defence facility may have been a factor. However, authorities have refused to confirm or deny any connection.

Residents reported hearing a loud bang shortly before police arrived, leading to initial concerns about the nature of the incident. Some onlookers feared the explosion could be linked to a wider threat, though authorities later confirmed it was a controlled police operation.

By the evening, cordons were lifted, and emergency services left the scene. While police have reassured the public that there is no ongoing risk, the incident has left many questioning the scale of the response and any potential security concerns in the area.