'Suspicious chemicals' alert was sparked by 'amateur chemistry enthusiasts' with no criminal intent

An investigation launched after the discovery of 'suspicious chemicals' in a police raid has been closed, with no criminal charges brought against three men arrested.

The discovery on a housing estate in the Marsh Green area of Wigan more than two years ago sparked evacuations and the arrival of a bomb disposal team. Three men - aged between 20 and 25 - were arrested at the time on suspicion of an offence under section 4 of the Explosives Act.

It has now been revealed the subsequent police probe found nothing more than 'an enthusiasm for amateur chemistry', with no criminal intent.

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After questioning, the men were all released from custody, one on police bail and two others under investigation pending further inquiries.

Today - Tuesday - Greater Manchester Police confirmed the case has been dropped, with no further action being taken against them. A force spokesperson said: "The investigation has been concluded with no person being charged with any offence."

It is understood a number of devices were also seized as part of the raid on Vulcan Road. The Manchester Evening News understands analysis revealed no evidence of any sinister intention on the part of the men held.

The police raid was carried out at around 8.20am on February 26, 2022, as part of an ongoing investigation, GMP said at the time.

Residents near the scene were evacuated from their homes as emergency services including ambulances and the fire service attended on Vulcan Road.

During a search of the property, police said officers found what they described only as a suspicious item and suspicious chemicals. No further description has been provided despite