Authorities in the Australian Capital Territory have issued an urgent public safety alert following the alarming discovery of 11 explosive devices in public spaces across Canberra over the past two days.
Devices Discovered Around Lake Ginninderra
Several of the dangerous items, identified as improvised pipe bombs, were found in the Belconnen area. The locations were around Lake Ginninderra between Joynton Smith Drive and Ginninderra Drive. ACT Police have released images of the objects, which are described as pipe-shaped, with screw tops, and small enough to fit in a person's hand.
Police Issue Stern Public Warning
Detective Acting Inspector Anna Wronski delivered a clear and direct message to the community. She stressed that any explosive is dangerous and expressed concern that these devices had been left in areas accessible to the public, including children.
"Thankfully there haven't been any reported injuries but we are concerned these devices have been left in public where anyone could step on them and pick them up," Inspector Wronski told ABC Radio.
Community Urged to Report, Not Touch
The central plea from police is for residents to be vigilant but not to intervene. "What we're actually asking the community to do is, if they come across any of these suspicious items, to immediately call police on Triple Zero," Inspector Wronski stated. The instruction is emphatic: do not touch or handle the objects under any circumstances.
Despite the serious finds, ACT Police have stated that there is no need for residents to avoid the general area. However, the situation is being treated with the utmost seriousness, with investigations ongoing to determine who is responsible for placing the devices.
The discovery of 11 such items in a short timeframe represents a significant and unusual threat to public safety, prompting a widespread alert to prevent potential harm.
