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A major police operation remains ongoing in Ashford Road, Maidstone, as a section of the A20 remains closed in both directions following a serious incident near the Park Gate Inn.
Emergency services, including the British Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, counterterrorism officers, and the National Crime Agency, have been at the scene since approximately 9pm on Monday evening (7 July).
A 100-metre police cordon has been established around the Park Gate Inn, with a significant presence of specialist officers, forensics teams, and armoured police vehicles continuing to secure the area into Monday morning.
Access to Ashford Road between Greenway Court Road and the B2163 Penfold Hill is currently blocked in both directions.
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A number of black evidence bags and a large white forensic shield have been spotted outside a residential property directly opposite the pub, further indicating the scale and seriousness of the operation.
The nature of the items recovered or examined at the scene has not been confirmed.
Despite multiple attempts, Kent Police have not yet responded to media enquiries for official comment on the nature of the incident.
Officers at the scene have been advising members of the public to leave the area for their own safety, and residents in surrounding properties have reported a significant overnight police presence.
There are currently no confirmed reports of injuries or arrests, and the full extent of the situation remains unclear. However, the involvement of the bomb squad and counterterror personnel suggests the operation may relate to a serious national security or public safety threat.
The Park Gate Inn remains sealed off and is at the centre of the ongoing investigation.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes, as significant traffic disruption is expected through the Tuesday morning rush hour.
This is a developing story, and we will bring you live updates as soon as further details are confirmed.
