TWO men who were detained in Warrington as part of an investigation by the North West Counter Terrorism Unit remain in custody for questioning today, Tuesday. 

The two suspects – aged 30 and 32 – were arrested on suspicion of offences contrary to the terrorism act after properties on Gough Avenue in Longford and Watkin Street in Orford were raided on Sunday.

Both men remain in custody for questioning and officers remain in the area carrying out searches.

Police have confirmed the warrants form part of an ongoing counter terrorism probe and are not connected to the investigation into the Manchester Arena attack.

ACC Darren Martland said: “I know people will be concerned about the nature of yesterday’s activity, but I hope they will also be reassured at the positive action that has been taken.

“We would like to reassure communities that there is no immediate threat in relation to the current investigation, but we’re increasing our police patrols to ensure that we’re visible and providing reassurance. 

"It is our communities who will help us defeat terrorism and I would urge the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police by calling the confidential anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789321.

"In an emergency always dial 999.”

Residents living close to Watkin Street have spoken of their shock after seeing police descend on the area as part of a terrorism probe.

Dad-of-six Ray Platt, 44, said: "I was shocked. I have lived here for three years and you don't expect this kind of thing on your doorstep.

"You see it on the news so it's a shock that it's so close to home.

"I spoke to the police yesterday as I have my kids at the weekend and they told me it's an isolated incident and not to worry."

Another neighbour, who asked not to be named, said she was also left in shock after yesterday's raid.

The 26-year-old mum-of-two added: "My fella thought it was something to do with fraud but then we realised it must be something more serious as they are still searching the flat.

"I didn't even hear it. My fella did. He looked out of the window and saw armed police and officers shouting 'get down on the ground'."

A great-grandmother, who has lived in the area for 21 years, believed the investigation was linked to drugs until she read the news on Facebook this morning.