RESIDENTS who were left homeless following the Pier Road explosion will be given some of their belongings from the site in the coming weeks as the investigation into the cause of the incident continues.
Det Supt Alison Fossey said that following a risk assessment of the Haut du Mont site, the removal of further belongings will take place.
So far, 332 exhibits have been seized, with 344 lines of inquiry being pursued and 88 statements taken as part of ‘Operation Spire’ which is investigating the cause of the explosion which claimed ten lives last month.
Det Supt Fossey, head of the Criminal Investigation Department, confirmed that there will be more activity on the site in the coming days as the Health and Safety Inspectorate and States police continue forensic excavations.
‘This more intense work on the site will continue for at least the next two weeks or so and structural engineers will be present to make sure the area is as safe as possible for those working there,’ she said.
‘Islanders can be assured that, as we near the one-month anniversary of the disaster, our efforts remain focused on doing the best for the grieving relatives and the displaced residents. Family liaison officers are supporting the bereaved families and community police are meeting regularly with the displaced residents.
‘Once risk assessments are made this week the removal of further belongings from Haut du Mont will take place allowing more comfort and continuity for those displaced. This process will similarly take at least a week or so,’ she added.
UK police forces have also provided extra assistance for the investigation, with five detectives providing support.
‘The Health and Safety Inspectorate and States police will provide as many updates as is possible and appropriate throughout the investigation,’ she said.
‘The continued support from the community towards those affected by this incident has been heart-warming and officers, who will be working on these investigations for many months, have really appreciated it,’ she added.
