Approximately 40 World War I-era shells were neutralized over the weekend on a beach in Lège-Cap-Ferret, Gironde, after the collapse of a World War II bunker weakened by erosion. Authorities say the area remains potentially hazardous and further munitions may be present.
A large-scale demining operation took place near the Arcachon Basin after the discovery of the shells, following the collapse of a Second World War bunker, the maritime prefecture of the Atlantic announced Sunday. The discovery of the munitions prompted the extensive search and removal effort.
The French 75mm shells, model 1917, are believed to have been stored by German forces during the war on the Atlantic coast beach. The munitions resurfaced after the recent collapse of the bunker, caused by erosion of the dune at Lège-Cap-Ferret, a town located on the Arcachon Basin.
Further Discoveries Possible?
Demining teams had to work twice during the period of high tides to destroy the munitions, as the shells were covered by the sea.
“Although old and weathered, these munitions remain dangerous and require specialized handling,” the maritime prefecture stated in a news release. “Further searches suggest the possible presence of other munitions in the area,” the prefecture added.
