WW2 Era Mortar Found In Borgarnes Campgrounds

A mortar discovered in a Borgarnes camping area has been destroyed with no damage to person nor property.

The Icelandic Coast Guard (LHG) announced that they were called to a campground in Borgarnes, west Iceland, yesterday when a mysterious bomb-shaped object was discovered near the campsite. LHG determined that the object in question was a British mortar dating from World War 2.

As can be seen in the above photo, the mortar was not in top form, and was nearly inoperable. LHG disabled the munition with an explosive charge without incident.

Ordinance from World War 2, usually British, is regularly found all over Iceland. These explosives range from simple mortars to highly destructive sea mines, and are dealt with exclusively by LHG, 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 LHG, or contact LHG yourself at 511 3333.