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M20 shut at Ashford and bomb squad called amid concerns over security of vehicle stopped in police chase

A bomb disposal team has been called to the M20 following concerns about a car involved in a police chase.

An Army lorry is parked across the London-bound carriageway close to Junction 9 for Ashford.

The bomb squad on the M20 at Ashford. Picture: UKNIP
The bomb squad on the M20 at Ashford. Picture: UKNIP

Police say the explosive experts are at the scene as a precautionary measure following concerns about the security of the vehicle which pursuing officers "tactically hit" when they brought it to a stop.

The chase started near to Junction 12 for the Channel Tunnel and ended at Ashford.

A 27-year-old man from Wales was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop for police.

The chased vehicle was hit by a police car and brought to a halt.

Police subsequently closed the M20 in both directions between Junction 9 and Junction 8 for Leeds Castle.

The queues on the M20 taken from above. Picture: Keith McCarthy (46541137)
The queues on the M20 taken from above. Picture: Keith McCarthy (46541137)
The M20 is shut between Junction 8 and 9
The M20 is shut between Junction 8 and 9

Motorists stuck in queues on the motorway are being turned around and directed back, while traffic is heavily building on the A20.

No one was reported injured following the chase.

The M20 remains shut in both directions, and the bomb teams are still at the scene.

It is not known how long the closure will remain enforced.

Traffic being held on the M20 near to Junction 9
Traffic being held on the M20 near to Junction 9

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