After evacuating 2,600 homes and anyone within a 400-metre radius, the big red button got pushed that sent debris flying in a powerful controlled explosion that was all captured on incredible drone footage.

In an exercise that was a combination of multiple organisations and volunteers working together to clear the area and ensure the safety of the public, the Devon & Cornwall and Dorset Police Drone twitter account stated “We've spent the last 2 days in Exeter supporting the huge multi-agency operation for an unexploded WW2 bomb.

"This is from the drone the moment it was detonated”

We’ve spent the last 2 days in Exeter supporting the huge multi-agency operation for an unexploded WW2 bomb. This is from the drone the moment it was detonated...
(the 2nd clip is thermal imaging)#exeter @BBCNews @SkyNews @DevonLiveNews @DC_Police @BBCSpotlight @itvwestcountry pic.twitter.com/LECX9foVTy

— Devon & Cornwall and Dorset Police Drone Team (@PoliceDrones) February 28, 2021

Bomb disposal experts used 400 tonnes of sand to create an enclosing box to help suppress the damage of the blast.

However, it appears those measures were not enough to prevent the explosion damaging homes within the area, with multiple residents unable to return to their properties after sharing images of their doors and windows being blown out due to the force of the detonation.

As reported by the BBC, some residents have now spent 4 nights away from their home as a result and questions are being asked as to who is responsible and, more importantly, who is going to pay for the repairs.

Ben Bradshaw, Exeter’s Labour MP said “residents will be looking for answers on who is liable to pay for the damage.

"It is really important that the government clarifies the issue of liability as soon as possible.

Bang! Image Credit: Devon & Cornwall and Dorset Police Drone

"We don't want residents to be involved in years and years of potential wrangling over who is going to foot the bill.

"People have got enough on their plates at the moment.”

And it wasn’t just locals who are currently displaced as a result, with a reported 300 students from the University Of Exeter still not able to return to student housing due to damage.

In a statement that is sure to have residents fearing the worst about this process, an Exeter City Council spokesman said “It will now be down to these residents to return to their properties and contact their own insurance companies to make any further arrangements.”

We will keep you posted as this story develops.

(H/T BBC)