A 15-year-old boy and a 38-year-old woman have been arrested in Corby after police uncovered suspected explosive substances linked to illegal homemade pyrotechnics.
Northamptonshire Police raided a property on Whitworth Avenue as part of a planned operation targeting a social media account allegedly promoting and selling DIY fireworks.
Specialist officers searched the address, seizing chemicals believed to be restricted under the Explosives Act 1875 and Control of Explosives Regulations 1991. The pair were arrested on suspicion of possessing explosive substances for unlawful purposes and selling reportable explosive precursors. Both remain in custody.
Police have confirmed that the incident is not terror-related, and there is no risk to the wider public.
Chief Inspector Carl Wilson said:
“We are taking every precaution to ensure public safety and preserve evidence. We urge residents not to speculate online as our investigation continues.”
Specialist teams, including chemical handling units, remain on site to secure and assess potentially hazardous substances. The operation was launched following intelligence reports of illegal chemical sales and firework-making tutorials being posted online.
While the arrests are not connected to any historic cases, the incident has stirred concern due to Corby’s past issues with toxic contamination. However, police stress that the current probe is unrelated.
The National Crime Agency supports the investigation through the Chemical Suspicious Activity Reports (CSAR) system, which tracks the unlawful acquisition of chemical precursors.
Locally, efforts to strengthen community policing are underway. Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone said new stations in Corby and Kettering will reinforce law enforcement visibility. Meanwhile, burglary rates in the area have dropped by 60%, thanks to dedicated teams.
Anyone with information about suspicious substances or activity is urged to contact police. In an emergency, call 999. For non-emergency concerns, dial 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555111.
