Suspicious package left outside benefits office

Suspicious package found outside Middleton Job Centre

Police have determined a suspect package left outside a benefits office in Middleton was not a viable device.

Just before 5am on Monday 16 June 2014, police were called to the Benefits Office on Oldham Road, Middleton to reports a suspicious package had been left outside.

Officers attended and a number of cordons were put in place as a precaution while the validity of the package was established. An Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) was deployed to the scene and having assessed the package it has been determined it was not a viable explosive device.

The package has now been recovered and there is no threat to any members of the public.

A number of road closures were put in place and these have all now been lifted and traffic is flowing again.

A man has been arrested on suspicion of making a hoax bomb call and remains in police custody for questioning.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.