Artillery Shell Deactivated in a Cove in Menorca

Last week, some hikers walking in the area of Cala Pudent discovered what appeared to be an artillery shell.

They promptly informed the Civil Guard, activating the GEDEX (Specialist Group in Explosive Ordnance Disposal) from Mahón. After verifying the coordinates provided by the hikers, it was confirmed that the artifact was in a very difficult-to-access area. Therefore, assistance was needed from the Civil Guard Air Service along with a specialist from the Mountain Rescue and Intervention Group.

Upon reaching the site of the discovery, and after analyzing and studying the artifact, it was verified to be an 88 mm artillery shell, dated approximately 30 to 35 years old. It is likely that it was launched during some military maneuver and did not explode, currently being in very good condition, which poses a significant risk of activation.

For this reason, the TEDAX specialists from the Civil Guard proceeded with its deactivation, detonating it in a controlled manner according to the corresponding protocol.

In the event of discovering such artifacts or suspicious objects, it is crucial not to handle or move them. The Civil Guard (062 or 112) should be notified as soon as possible. It is very helpful to provide exact coordinates of the location along with some images to aid in identifying the artifact. Additionally, it is important to mark the area clearly with something noticeable on the ground.