Dangerous find in France: Explosions heard as bomb disposal teams clear shells after wildfire
Translated from Lithuanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Bomb disposal teams in Le Porzho, France, discovered and neutralized 75 shells in a field previously affected by a large wildfire.
- Further inspection revealed more unexploded ordnance, including French mortar shells and German tank shells, indicating a potentially larger cache.
- Authorities are working to find and neutralize remaining shells to ensure residents can safely return to their homes.
Bomb disposal experts in Le Porzho, France, have uncovered a significant cache of unexploded ordnance in a field devastated by one of the largest wildfires in the country this season. During a routine operation last week, teams removed 75 shells from the area.
Last week, during an operation, we discovered this field from which we removed 75 shells.
However, the danger was not over. After waiting for the field to cool, specialists returned and quickly discovered more shells. Philippe Delemotte, head of the Bordeaux bomb disposal service, described finding additional ordnance within minutes, stating, "We can say that there are still many more there."
The discovered munitions include French mortar shells and German tank shells. Initially believed to be a hidden weapons depot left by German forces, Delemotte now suggests the shells were intended for destruction in excavated pits. The operation, however, was not entirely successful, leaving some shells on the surface.
Today we waited for the field to cool so we could enter it. And in a few minutes, we found even more shells like these.
With residents eager to return to their homes near the affected area, authorities are prioritizing the search and neutralization of any remaining explosive devices to ensure public safety. The ongoing discovery highlights the lingering dangers in the fire-ravaged landscape.
We can say that there are still many more there, because we found several more in just five minutes.
Originally published by Delfi in Lithuanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.