Suspicious Device Found on Gold Coast Beach Sparks Lockdown and Investigation

Image credits: Nine

A suspicious device was found washed up on a Gold Coast beach, prompting a significant exclusion zone and lockdown while authorities examine the item. The device was discovered at Main Beach around 5:45am, with emergency services and police quickly responding to the scene. A 100-metre exclusion zone has been established around the device, with police asking members of the public to avoid the area. The Australian Defence Force has been notified, and specialists have arrived to examine the device, which is believed to be a military device, possibly a torpedo.

According to eyewitnesses, the object is about 3 metres long, covered in barnacles, and appears to be rusty, indicating it has been submerged for some time. Surf Life Saving Queensland said lifeguards found the device and reported it early in the morning. The discovery has sparked a significant response from authorities, with police and Defence Force specialists working to determine the origin and nature of the device. The lockdown and exclusion zone are in place as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety.

The incident has raised concerns among local residents and beachgoers, with many taking to social media to share images and updates on the situation. The Australian Defence Force and police are urging people to avoid the area and to follow instructions from authorities. The investigation is ongoing, and it is expected that more information will be released as it becomes available. In the meantime, the public is advised to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

The discovery of the suspicious device has also sparked a discussion about the potential risks and consequences of such devices being found in public areas. The incident highlights the importance of prompt and effective response from authorities in ensuring public safety. The use of exclusion zones and lockdowns is a common practice in such situations, and it is expected that the authorities will take all necessary measures to minimize the risk to the public.

In terms of the potential origin of the device, there are several possibilities, including the possibility that it is a practice round or a discarded military device. The investigation will likely involve a thorough examination of the device, as well as a review of any available evidence, including witness statements and surveillance footage. The public can expect to receive updates on the investigation as more information becomes available, and it is likely that the authorities will provide guidance on any necessary precautions or actions that the public can take to ensure their safety.