Homemade Explosive Detonated in South Canberra Prompts Police Investigation
A homemade explosive device detonated in a public park in south Canberra early Thursday morning, prompting an investigation by ACT Policing. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident, or similar suspicious activity, to come forward.
ACT Policing responded to multiple reports of a loud explosion near Holder Oval around 5 a.m. local time. Shortly before 10 a.m., a member of the public discovered a suspicious item on the oval, which was subsequently identified as the remnants of an explosive device.
Device Details and Public Safety
The device, approximately 15 centimeters in length, was examined by the bomb team and has been taken into forensic custody for analysis. According to authorities, the device is believed to have been homemade.
“There’s nothing funny about leaving explosive devices in public where they can hurt others,” a senior official stated. “It may be a prank and it still could hurt someone at some stage.”
Police are emphasizing the importance of public vigilance. Individuals who encounter any suspicious items are strongly advised not to touch them. Instead, they should immediately contact the police. “If it looks suspicious, don’t touch it. Leave it, call us. Certainly don’t pick it up,” authorities cautioned.
Connection to Previous Incidents Under Investigation
While police currently do not believe this incident is directly linked to the discovery of 15 explosive devices, including pipe bombs, near Lake Ginninderra in January, they are not ruling out a connection to other recent events.
Damien Paul O’Brien, 41, was arrested on January 17 in connection with the Lake Ginninderra devices and remains in custody after pleading not guilty to manufacturing the devices.
ACT Policing also received multiple reports of explosive devices found in the Duffy area between December 15 and January 15. “We’re certainly investigating those other devices that have been located,” a senior official confirmed.
No Ongoing Threat, Police Assure Public
Despite the series of incidents, authorities have stated there is currently no ongoing threat to the community. However, the investigation remains active, and police are appealing to the public for assistance.
Anyone with information regarding suspicious activity around Holder Oval around 5 a.m. on Thursday, or any information about the device itself, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
Authorities reiterate that while there is currently “no evidence” of additional explosives in the community, caution and vigilance are paramount.
