Police have closed off Waitara Parade at Hurstville Grove after the bomb squad was called in following an Australian Customs Service search of a house today.
A customs spokesman said: "We executed a search warrant at the address this afternoon and during the early part of that search we came across a number of items that concerned us. We don't know if they are explosive or not''.
"We have called NSW Police explosive experts and for our own officer safety we have withdrawn until we are given the all clear.''
Residents from about 10 to 12 houses have been evacuated with most people heading to neighbours' homes.
Joseph Maroun, who lives two doors down from the house that was searched, said he noticed police in the street when he left for work at 6.45am.
"They blocked it off and started evacuating people about 2.30pm,'' he said.
"I came home at 3.30pm. I'm not allowed in, I've got three kids, they have been restless, they want to do their homework and they want to eat.
He said the house searched was occupied by a man who lived on his own.
"He works as a security guard,'' he said.
"I've seen him with security gear on he's a very quiet guy.''
"I live two houses down but the one in between is empty.
Mr Maroun said the street was usually a quiet area "everyone knows everyone'' he said.
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