A major police investigation is underway in Canberra after the discovery of nearly a dozen pipe bombs, some of which had already detonated, in public parks and on footpaths. Authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution.
Public Urged: Do Not Touch Suspicious Devices
ACT Policing detective acting inspector Anna Wronski fronted media on Thursday with a critical warning for residents. She stressed that anyone who encounters one of the silver, tube-shaped objects must not handle it under any circumstances.
"We do not want members of the public to pick them up. We do not want members of the public to bring them to police stations. We want them to call triple zero immediately," Wronski told reporters.
She advised that if a device is found, people should stay nearby in a safe location to guide emergency services, but must not approach or interfere with the object.
Devices Found Along Lake Ginninderra
The unsettling discoveries were made along a one-kilometre stretch of footpath near Lake Ginninderra in Canberra's northwest suburb of Belconnen. As of Thursday morning, the count stood at 11 pipe bombs.
The first device was located by a member of the public, triggering the extensive police response. According to Inspector Wronski, the items have been found in varying states: some were intact, while others appeared to have partially detonated before discovery.
"A number of the devices have been located intact, and a number have been located partially destroyed," she said. Police currently do not believe anyone was injured by the explosions.
Investigation Ongoing, Motive Unclear
Detectives are working to determine the origin of the pipe bombs and who is responsible. Inspector Wronski confirmed the matter is being taken "extremely seriously" but stated it is not currently being treated as a terrorism incident.
Key questions remain unanswered, including how long the explosive devices had been in place before being found. Police also cannot rule out the possibility that more devices are yet to be discovered in the area.
Images released by ACT Policing show the crude nature of the bombs: a silver metal pipe with caps screwed onto both ends. In one photo, what appears to be a fuse can be seen protruding from a cap.
"Any explosive is dangerous. That's why we're taking it so seriously. An explosive in a public place does raise a lot of concern for police," Inspector Wronski emphasised.
The investigation continues as forensic officers and specialist resources examine the scenes.
