Bomb squad secures suspicious package found in New Plymouth

Police say the suspicious package discovered in New Plymouth has been secured.

The package was found in a tree on Waiwaka Terrace in Strandon around 2pm today.

Cordons were placed around the area while the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, the army’s bomb squad, inspected it.

Area Inspector Commander Belinda Dewar, Taranaki says the object has been secured and removed from the suburban street.

Police are willing to speak to anyone who may have information regarding this incident, he said.

“Our advice to anyone who might find a suspicious package is to stay away from it or move it, but to get away to a safe distance and call 111,” Dewar said.

“Agencies involved in managing these types of incidents have well-practiced systems to deal with them and minimize the risk to themselves or the public.”

Roads have not been reopened in the area.

Can you help? Anyone with information should call the police at 105 quoting the work number P044042842.

The information can also be provided anonymously via 0800555111.