(Peterborough County, ON) – Members of the Peterborough County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) had a few anxious moments yesterday just after 2:30pm. A well-intended citizen brought live World War II era mortar round into the police station.
Officers at the detachment were able to isolate the mortar in a safe compound. Members of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit from Canadian Forces Base Trenton were able to attend and destroy the device.
Unexploded or live military explosives (bombs, shells, grenades, land mines, mortar shells) still pose a risk of detonation and can be highly unstable. If you find military ordnance:
· Do not touch, move or transport the item
· Record any numbers that might appear on the device (this will assist with identification of the item)
· Be prepared to describe its shape and size
· Call your local police agency for proper disposal
The OPP and the Canadian Armed Forces have trained experts who will attend the location of the explosive device and can decide the safest method for its removal and disposal.
The Ontario Provincial Police is committed to public safety, delivering proactive and innovative policing in partnership with our communities.
Peterborough County OPP values your contribution to building safe communities. If you have information about suspected unlawful activity, please visit Crime Stoppers at: www.stopcrimehere.ca or call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)