Inert Training Mine Found Near Porthpean Prompting Swift Response from Coastguard and EOD Teams

In a meticulously coordinated operation, St Austell Coastguard, alongside EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) teams and local harbour authorities, successfully managed the safe removal of a large metal object initially suspected to be an active mine near Porthpean.

The object, which turned out to be an inert training mine, was discovered and reported by a vigilant member of the public on the 11th of March 2024.

The coastguard was alerted to the potential hazard at 13:16 hrs, prompting immediate deployment to the reported location. The first informant played a crucial role in guiding the coastguard team to the precise location of the object, which upon initial inspection, appeared to be a mine. Images and details of the object were swiftly relayed to the Operations room and subsequently forwarded to the EOD experts for evaluation.

Given the constraints posed by tidal movements, the EOD team’s physical inspection was scheduled for the following morning. By 08:00 hrs on the 12th of March, the coastguard team, alongside the Scene Officer (SO) and four members, had cordoned off the area around Porthpean to ensure public safety as they awaited the tide’s retreat to reveal the object.

Image Credit: St Austell Coastguard

EOD’s arrival confirmed the object as a mine, albeit an inert one used for training purposes. Despite posing no immediate explosive threat, the necessity to remove the device was paramount to ensure the safety of water users and to prevent any further alarms.

The removal operation was strategically planned to coincide with the rising tide, facilitating the mine’s flotation and subsequent towing to Charlestown Harbour. The joint efforts of RN EOD, the harbour master’s team, and the Coastguard Rescue Team (CRT) ensured the mine’s secure transfer to a Royal Navy vehicle for safe disposal.

The operation highlighted the effective collaboration among various agencies, including the Royal Navy, harbour authorities, and HM CRT. The coastguard’s prior engagement with EOD units proved beneficial in the smooth execution of the removal process. The team also provided essential support in managing the location of the device, maintaining the cordon, and offering reassurance to the public throughout the operation.

St Austell Coastguard expressed gratitude to all parties involved, including the first informant whose prompt action was crucial in the successful resolution of the incident. The coastguard reiterated the importance of reporting any coastal emergencies to the authorities immediately by calling 999 and requesting the coastguard, underscoring the community’s role in ensuring maritime safety.

Image Credit: St Austell Coastguard