Police in the Australian Capital Territory have launched a major investigation after discovering nearly a dozen potentially lethal pipe bombs scattered along public footpaths in Canberra's north-west.
Public Urged to Stay Clear of Suspicious Devices
The alarming finds were made over two days near Lake Ginninderra, with the first device reported by a member of the public. Eleven pipe bombs in total were located along a one-kilometre stretch of pathway. Some of the improvised explosive devices were found intact, while others had already partially detonated.
Detective Acting Inspector Anna Wronski of ACT Policing issued a stern warning to the community. "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," she stated on Thursday.
Devices Pose Serious Risk in Public Spaces
Images released by police show the crude construction of the bombs: a silver metal pipe with caps screwed onto both ends. In one photograph, what appears to be a fuse protrudes from one of the caps.
While investigators believe no one was injured by the detonations, the presence of the explosives in a public area has raised significant alarm. "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.
Investigation Ongoing, Motive Unknown
Authorities confirmed the incident is not currently being treated as a terrorism-related matter. However, the origin of the pipe bombs and the identity of those responsible remain a mystery. Police could not say how long the devices had been in place before discovery and warned that more may yet be found.
The investigation continues as forensic teams and specialist officers work to secure the area and gather evidence. The public is reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious items without delay.
