A20 at Hollingbourne Reopens as Police Confirm End of Search Operation
The A20 at Hollingbourne has now fully reopened following the completion of a days-long police operation, which included bomb squad searches after a man was shot by officers on Monday, July 7.
The closure, which affected traffic near Ashford Road on and off for several days, was enforced to allow specialist teams, including the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, to safely investigate the surrounding area.
Nine Suspicious Devices Found
As part of the ongoing investigation, at least nine suspicious devices were located and dealt with by EOD officers. Kent Police confirmed that the searches were completed safely and the area has now been fully handed back.
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The incident began on July 7 when officers attended a property near the Park Gate Inn. A man in his 30s, reportedly wearing body armour and carrying a chainsaw, was shot by police. He remains in hospital with life-changing injuries.
Public Thanked for Patience
Chief Superintendent Neil Loudon, West Divisional Commander for Kent Police, thanked residents and commuters for their cooperation during the operation:
“This has been a complex investigation and we appreciate that the intermittent closure of the A20 caused disruption to many.
We would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding whilst we conducted these vital searches.”
Investigation Ongoing
The case remains under active investigation, and no further details about the recovered devices or the condition of the injured man have been released at this time.
For further updates, follow Kent Police or visit www.kent.police.uk.
