A major emergency response was launched  late on Sunday evening after a suspected piece of ordnance was discovered submerged in the waters off Stonehouse, Plymouth.

At approximately 2:46pm, HM Coastguard was alerted to the presence of a potentially explosive object beneath the surface, prompting an immediate multi-agency operation involving Devon and Cornwall Police, Plymouth Coastguard Rescue Team, and an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit.

A cordon was quickly put in place, and the surrounding beach area was cleared as a precaution while emergency teams assessed the situation. An HM Coastguard spokesperson confirmed the object remains unidentified but is being treated with caution due to the potential risk.

“At around 2.46pm this afternoon, HM Coastguard was made aware of an object suspected to be ordnance submerged in waters at Stonehouse, Plymouth,” a spokesperson said. “Devon and Cornwall Police remains at the scene and has cleared the beach area, alongside Plymouth Coastguard Rescue Team. An Explosives Ordnance Disposal team is present and will be searching for the object with police and coastguards this evening.”

Bomb Squad Awaits Low Tide

Authorities confirmed that the EOD team remained on standby until low tide at approximately 11:45pm, when conditions were expected to allow for a safer and more thorough examination of the object.

The object had not yet been identified by the time of last reports, and search and inspection efforts were ongoing into the night.

Public Urged to Stay Clear

Police and coastguard officials have urged the public to stay away from the cordoned-off area while the investigation continues. There have been no reports of injuries or evacuations, and the situation remains under control.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available from police and EOD specialists.

Residents are advised to follow official guidance and stay informed through local news and emergency services’ social media channels.