THE PRESENCE of bomb disposal unit has left Southampton residents feeling "scared and intimidated".

Bomb disposal experts stood huddled in Bond Road, Southampton.

With a "large police presence" the road was blocked for much of Saturday afternoon.

Daily Echo:

The explosives specialists arrived at around 5pm - with one officer donning a protective suit and helmet.

Police officers had raided a house in the Bitterne Park area of the city as part of a firearms and drugs sting the night before.

However, police remained on the scene carrying out investigations on Saturday.

According to police, two homes were evacuated as a precaution.

Daily Echo:

Bond Road resident Andrea Clench told the Daily Echo at the scene: "The police were walking up and down the street [on Friday] then all of a sudden about eight officers ran up the hill to the house [which was raided].

"They had a dog with them."

The 56-year-old retired nurse added: "It's scary to have a bomb disposal unit in the neighbourhood."

"It's mad. It's intimidating. I am a bit nervous."

One resident who wished to remain unnamed said: "On Friday night there were two police vans, five cars, and an unmarked police car.

"There was a sniffer dog which would not stop barking then my dog would not stop barking.

"It's just not normal. It's a quiet residential area."

Daily Echo:

Another resident told how at least 14 officers some armed with tasers lined up outside the house which was raided.

A 47-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of manufacturing firearms and ammunition.

Meanwhile, a 40-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply cocaine, as well as firearms charges.

Both men are from Southampton and remain in police custody.

A police spokesperson said at the time: We would like to inform that we are currently at a home on Bond Road conducting an investigation into firearms and drugs supply.

We remain at the address today (Saturday) carrying out a number of enquiries. As part of the investigation, we have carried out a thorough search of the property.

"This afternoon we have called out the explosive ordinance disposal team to assist us and we have evacuated two properties as a precaution."

Anyone with any information is urged to call police on 101 and quote 44200222943 or approach officers patrolling the area.