SUSPECTS accused of delivering a parcel bomb to a house in Colchester have been released on bail.

Police are continuing to investigate an explosion in Othello Close, Colchester.

A package containing a number of 300ml lighter gas cannisters was rigged to explode and delivered to the home.

Just before 10.30am on Wednesday the device, wired into a shoebox, blew up in the face of a woman.

Miraculously she did not suffer any serious injuries.

The attack was specifically targeted against someone at the home but it is not known if the victim was the specific target.

The road and property were cordoned off for the day while detectives spoke to neighbours and forensic scientists examined the bomb and the home.

Det Insp Daniel Stoten 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 is for anyone who was in that road on Wednesday to contact my team as soon as possible.”

A 54-year-old woman and a 53-year-old man, both from Colchester, were arrested.

The man was arrested outside of Leisure World, off Cowdray Avenue, Colchester.

Both have been released on bail until March.

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