An explosive device dating from the Second World War was unearthed Wednesday morning in the Ducos industrial zone, south of Nouméa. The object, an old American shell, was discovered by a worker during excavation work, prompting an immediate response from the authorities.
Following the report, a security detail was deployed around the site to eliminate any risk to employees and local residents. Law enforcement established a security perimeter, while emergency services were mobilized to provide support.
A neutralization operation carried out by military bomb disposal experts
Bomb disposal experts were called in to handle the munition, which was identified as a live projectile and not a training device. The shell was carefully moved to a nearby secure area, where it was destroyed on site.
This type of discovery remains common in New Caledonia due to the significant American military presence during the global conflict. Authorities remind the public that any suspicious find must be left untouched and reported immediately to the security forces.
