In a startling discovery, a World War I-era German hand grenade was found among a shipment of potatoes at a Hong Kong potato chip factory. The century-old explosive device, covered in mud and rust, was still capable of detonating. The grenade was harvested along with potatoes in France and shipped to the Calbee Four Seas Company in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Police Force quickly intervened, safely detonating the grenade using a high-pressure water firing technique, preventing any potential harm.
A Shocking Discovery
The discovery of the grenade was made by workers at the Calbee Four Seas Company. The automated machinery in the factory was unable to process one particular potato, leading to the shocking realization that it was, in fact, a grenade. The device, which weighed 2.2 pounds, was nearly five times heavier than a typical potato. Its rusty exterior and mud-covered surface initially masked its true identity, making it a dangerous and unexpected find.
The grenade’s journey from the battlefields of France to a Hong Kong factory is a testament to the lingering remnants of past conflicts. Such discoveries are not uncommon, as unexploded ordnance from World War I and II are still found in various parts of the world. The Hong Kong Police Force, experienced in dealing with such threats, acted swiftly to neutralize the danger.
The police used a high-pressure water firing technique to safely detonate the grenade in an abandoned alley. This method ensured that the device was rendered harmless without causing any damage or injury. The successful detonation was a relief for the factory workers and the surrounding community.
Historical Context
The grenade found in the Hong Kong factory was a German-made device from World War I. These grenades were used extensively during the Great War, and many were left behind on the battlefields. Over time, they became buried and forgotten, only to resurface decades later. The grenade’s presence in a shipment of potatoes highlights the unpredictable nature of such discoveries.
Military historians explain that grenades and other explosive devices are often unearthed during agricultural activities. In this case, the grenade was likely harvested along with potatoes in France, a country that saw significant combat during World War I. The device’s journey to Hong Kong is a stark reminder of the enduring impact of historical conflicts.
The Hong Kong Police Force has a history of dealing with unexploded ordnance. In recent years, they have successfully defused several World War II-era bombs found in the city. These incidents underscore the importance of vigilance and expertise in handling such dangerous remnants of war.
Safety Measures and Public Response
The discovery of the grenade prompted immediate action from the Hong Kong Police Force. Their swift response ensured that the device was safely detonated without causing harm. The police’s expertise in handling unexploded ordnance was crucial in preventing a potential disaster.
The public response to the incident was one of relief and gratitude. The factory workers, who initially discovered the grenade, were praised for their quick thinking and prompt reporting of the suspicious object. The successful detonation of the grenade was widely covered in the media, highlighting the importance of safety measures in such situations.
The incident also served as a reminder of the need for ongoing vigilance in areas with a history of conflict. Unexploded ordnance can pose a significant threat, even decades after a war has ended. The Hong Kong Police Force’s handling of the situation demonstrated their commitment to public safety and their expertise in dealing with such threats.
