Man Discovered Grenade in Forest, Sparked Evacuation at Shopping Center

A significant security incident unfolded in Neuruppin, Brandenburg, when a man inadvertently triggered the evacuation of a shopping center and nearby residences after bringing a World War II-era grenade to a public area. The individual, aged 40, discovered the anti-tank grenade while walking in a forest near the town on a Saturday morning. Upon finding the munition, he promptly contacted law enforcement to report his discovery.

Authorities arranged to meet the man at the shopping center's parking lot, intending for him to indicate the location of the find. However, instead of leaving the grenade in the forest, he brought it along to the meeting point, raising immediate safety concerns among the officers present.

In response to the potential danger posed by the grenade, police established a security perimeter around the shopping center and surrounding residential buildings. Over 140 individuals were evacuated to ensure their safety while specialists assessed the situation. The grenade was examined by bomb disposal experts and subsequently removed from the site.

After approximately three and a half hours, the authorities lifted the security cordon around noon, allowing residents and shoppers to return to their normal activities. However, the finder of the grenade now faces legal repercussions, with investigations underway for violations of the War Weapons Control Act.

Emergency services, including the police, fire department, and local authorities, were actively involved in managing the situation. Police officials emphasized the risks associated with handling any discovered World War II munitions, noting that such items can still be dangerous even decades after their initial use. They urged anyone who stumbles upon similar items to mark the area and immediately inform law enforcement without attempting to move or handle the munition themselves.