Two unexploded bombs dating back to the Second World War, which were discovered in Plymouth and Exmouth, have been safely dealt with by the police. The incidents occurred within a short timeframe on Wednesday and the bombs were taken out to sea for secure disposal early Friday, according to Devon and Cornwall Police. This led to the evacuation of residents within a 600-meter cordon in Exmouth.
The Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall, James Vaughan, praised the bravery and expertise of the Royal Navy and army bomb disposal teams for their handling of the situation. The first bomb was found in Plymouth city center at a construction site, while the second was located at Exmouth Marina.
A significant number of residents within a 400-meter and later expanded to a 600-meter cordon were evacuated as military specialists worked on safely disposing of the devices, as confirmed by the police. Footage shows military bomb disposal experts removing an unexploded bomb from a trawler at Exmouth Marina before transporting it out to sea.
Following the successful resolution, Mr. Vaughan and police and crime commissioner Alison Hernandez met with the personnel involved at the Exmouth Lifeboat station command center to express their gratitude. Mr. Vaughan highlighted the strong partnership and community response, emphasizing the exceptional bravery and skills demonstrated by the Royal Navy and army bomb disposal experts.
Ms. Hernandez commended the professionalism of the police team in managing the logistical aspects of extending the cordon, noting their exemplary calmness throughout the operation.