AN arrest made at the house at the centre of a major police search operation today, was for 'drugs offences', police have revealed.

Officers are currently working with specialists from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service to carry out a full forensic search of the property in Rose Road, Totton, including a cellar.

A 51-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods and drugs offences after police were called to the address following reports of four men acting suspiciously.

On arrival, at 11am yesterday, officers found that the men were there lawfully but remained at the scene to prevent a “breach of the peace”.

It was while they were there that they noticed some items at the property, sparking a full search of the home, including the cellar.

The cellar's restricted access and confided space required officers to call in the fire brigade to ensure it was safe for forensic teams to search.

Police have once again reassured residents that despite the large police presence over the past 24 hours, there is no threat to the public and no-one has been harmed.

Detective Sergeant Frank Nelson said: “We have reassured residents that there is no need for them to be alarmed. No-one has been harmed and there is no information or suspicion that anyone is a threat to the local community or the public at this time.

“A number of items have been seized, which are being examined by the police to see what, if any, offences have been committed.

“The search has been made difficult and time consuming due to the layout of the property.

“We understand that such a large number of police officers and vehicles can lead people to assume there is a serious, ongoing incident taking place, but that is not the case here.

“A man remains in custody and our investigation is ongoing so we cannot discuss further details at this stage. We would like to reassure residents that we will work to complete this search as swiftly as possible and return their road to normality.”