Decommissioned Grenades Discovered in Newhaven Home During Burglary Investigation

Searches are continuing at a property in Newhaven following the arrest of a man and the discovery of two decommissioned grenades, which prompted a major emergency response earlier this week. On the evening of Wednesday, July 23, Sussex Police arrested a 54-year-old local man on suspicion of burglary. The arrest led officers to conduct a […]

Searches are continuing at a property in Newhaven following the arrest of a man and the discovery of two decommissioned grenades, which prompted a major emergency response earlier this week.

On the evening of Wednesday, July 23, Sussex Police arrested a 54-year-old local man on suspicion of burglary. The arrest led officers to conduct a search at a property on Newfield Road linked to the suspect, where they found what were initially believed to be unexploded munitions.

As a safety measure, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was called in, and a cordon was set up around the property. Nearby homes were evacuated, and Lewes District Council provided emergency accommodation and rest facilities for those affected.

Following examination by bomb disposal experts, the items were confirmed to be decommissioned grenades—meaning they no longer posed any explosive threat. The cordon has since been lifted, and evacuated residents have returned to their homes.

However, police have confirmed that searches at the Newfield Road property are still ongoing as part of the wider investigation. Officers continue to examine the premises for any additional evidence related to the burglary or any other potentially suspicious items.

Inspector Sarah Taylor of the Neighbourhood Policing Team said:

“We would like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding during the disruption. We also extend our gratitude to Lewes District Council for providing rest facilities for those temporarily displaced while assessments were carried out to ensure the items found posed no risk to the public.”

“Officers will remain in the area over the coming days as part of the ongoing investigation and to conduct further searches at the address.”

The 54-year-old suspect has been released on conditional bail, pending further enquiries. A continued police presence is expected in the neighbourhood while the investigation develops, with officers encouraging residents to approach them with any concerns or information.

Anyone with details that may assist the inquiry is urged to contact Sussex Police quoting reference 1386 of 23/07.