Swiss Army removes 280 unexploded bombs
Published: Tuesday, Aug 6th 2024, 10:20
Volver a Live Feed
The Swiss Army's unexploded ordnance center neutralized 280 unexploded bombs last year. A total of 1122 reports were received, around 12 percent more than in the previous year.
Of the reported objects, just under eight percent were actually unexploded ordnance, as the army announced on Tuesday. According to the report, 28 percent were found ammunition and 64 percent were ammunition scrap.
The upward trend continued in 2023 and the 2020 peak was exceeded by 121 reports. According to the army, the reasons for this were increased leisure activities in the field and a growing awareness of unexploded ordnance.
87 percent of the reports were made by civilians, which corresponds to the vast majority, while three percent were reported by troops and ten percent by the police. Most reports came from the cantons of Bern (215), Graubünden (208), Valais (158) and St. Gallen (111).
Finds are rewarded with up to 100 francs
In its statement, the army emphasizes that unexploded ordnance should never be touched. Anyone who discovers possible remnants of ammunition should mark the site clearly and alert the police by calling the emergency services.
Premiums of up to 100 francs are paid out for finding an unexploded bomb, it added. In 2023, 4800 francs were paid out for this.
©Keystone/SDA
Spanish 
English 
German 
French 
Arabic