UPDATE SATURDAY, 4.30pm

Two people arrested in connection with the investigation have been bailed by police. 

The 54-year-old woman was released on bail yesterday until March 22.

Police have this afternoon confirmed the 53-year-old man has been bailed until March 8.

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A MAN and a woman in their 50s have been arrested after a homemade bomb in a shoe box exploded at a house in Colchester.

Police flooded Othello Close in Greenstead yesterday morning after the box, containing a number of 300ml lighter gas canisters and wiring, blew up when it was opened.

Police have described the incident as a "specifically targeted attack".

A woman was taken to hospital as a precaution. 

A 54-year-old woman and a 53-year-old man, both from Colchester, are in custody.

Officers are appealing for anyone who was in the road yesterday morning to contact detectives.

DI Daniel Stoten of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate who is leading the investigation said: "Initial enquiries have established this was a specifically targeted attack and my team have arrested two people.

"There is nothing to suggest anyone is at risk and I am pleased we have been able to secure some early arrests. Forensic examinations are continuing on the package and we also continue to have a presence in Othello Close.

"My appeal today is for anyone who was in that road on Wednesday to contact my team as soon as possible.”

Anyone with any information should contact DI Stoten’s investigation team at Harlow on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.