New Westminster police are appealing for public assistance after the recovery of an explosive device in downtown New Westminster on Thursday night.
Police were called to the rear of a building in the 100 block of Agnes Street at about 7:30 p.m. on July 10 after receiving a report of what was described as a “pipe bomb.” Upon arriving at the scene, police located a realistic looking explosive device and called the RCMP Explosives Disposal Unit to assist with its removal.
About 10 p.m., the RCMP Explosives Disposal Unit conducted a controlled detonation to render the device safe, after which it was determined that the item was, while unsophisticated, a viable explosive device. The police investigation indicates the device had been at the location for an extended period of time, and it is not believed that it was left to target any specific individual or location.
“Obviously the discovery of this item is a serious concern for us,” said Staff-Sgt. Paul Hyland. “This device could have caused severe injuries or worse, had it detonated with anyone in close proximity.”
The New Westminster Police Department is asking anyone with information about this incident to contact Const. Tina Chan or Const. Brittany Ribeiro at 604-525-5411. Callers with information who wish to remain anonymous can also contact Metro Vancouver Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
New Westminster police are reminding members of the public who observe any kind of suspicious item that they suspect may be an explosive to call 911 immediately and not try to handle or move the item themselves.
