The Icelandic Coast Guard was alerted to the presence of a rocket-propelled grenade found by the side of Route 1 last Saturday. The Coast Guard announces that in response, they sent out their explosives team to assess the object in question.
It turned out that it was indeed an RPG, albeit from World War 2. They also found an old mortar nearby. Police were called to close a portion of Route 1 to car traffic while the ordinance was destroyed. The operation did not take long, and traffic was once again opened after a short period of time.
It is not unusual that World War 2-era explosives to be found around Iceland, as they are artefacts from the British and American occupation of the country during and after that time. This ordinance can range from mortars to highly destructive sea mines, and are dealt with exclusively by the Coast Guard, who typically detonate them in an isolated area.
If you spot what appears to be a mortar, mine or bomb outdoors, do not approach the object to get a better look. Instead, alert local police, who will in turn contact the Coast Guard, or contact the Coast Guard yourself at 511 3333.
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