A20 Fully Reopens After Bomb Squad Clears Suspicious Devices
The A20 at Hollingbourne is back open after a tense, days-long police operation involving bomb squad searches. The closure came after a dramatic police shooting on Monday, July 7, that sent shockwaves through the area and snarled traffic near Ashford Road.
Nine Suspicious Devices Found and Disposed
Specialist teams, including the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, were called in to sweep the area for threats. They discovered and safely dealt with at least nine suspicious devices, ensuring the road could finally reopen without risk.
Man Shot by Police in Dramatic Incident
The trouble began when officers responded to a property near the Park Gate Inn. A man in his 30s, reportedly wearing body armour and wielding a chainsaw, was shot by police. He remains hospitalised with life-changing injuries.
Kent Police Thank Public for Patience
Chief Superintendent Neil Loudon, Kent Police’s West Divisional Commander, said: “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 Continues
The police inquiry remains active. No further details about the suspicious devices or the injured man’s condition have been released.
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