A major security incident unfolded at a recycling centre in Devon today, leading to a full-scale evacuation after a tank shell was discovered among waste materials.
Emergency Response at Ivybridge Facility
The Ivybridge Recycling Centre, operated by Devon County Council, was abruptly closed to the public following the alarming find. Police were immediately called to the scene after staff identified the potentially dangerous military ordnance in a non-recyclable waste container.
Discovery and Immediate Actions
According to initial reports, the tank shell was deposited by an individual attempting to dispose of it as regular waste. The substantial size and nature of the item raised immediate safety concerns, triggering a swift emergency protocol.
Authorities implemented a comprehensive evacuation of the entire recycling centre to ensure public safety while bomb disposal experts were summoned to assess and handle the situation. The facility remains closed indefinitely as investigations continue.
Police Statement and Ongoing Investigation
Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed they are treating the incident with utmost seriousness. A spokesperson stated that the discovery of military-grade equipment in civilian waste facilities represents a significant public safety risk.
Investigators are now working to determine how the tank shell came to be at the recycling centre and whether it poses any ongoing danger. They are also seeking to identify the individual responsible for bringing the ordnance to the facility.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The incident has caused considerable disruption for local residents who rely on the Ivybridge Recycling Centre for their waste disposal needs. Council officials have advised residents to use alternative facilities while the investigation and necessary safety checks are completed.
This event highlights broader concerns about what items members of the public attempt to dispose of at recycling centres and the potential risks this can pose to staff and other visitors. Devon County Council has reiterated its safety guidelines regarding prohibited items at waste facilities.
The situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper disposal procedures for potentially hazardous materials and the critical role emergency services play in responding to such unexpected discoveries in community facilities.
