iN VIDEO: UPDATE: Modified grenade found on Armstrong street never threat to public

ARMSTRONG – An RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit has dealt with a suspected explosive device found yesterday afternoon in Armstrong.

A Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP media release said an RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit has confirmed today, March 20, the suspected device was a modified grenade and was not an actual explosive. Police say there was no risk to public safety.

RCMP say a concerned citizen informed police shortly before 5 p.m. March 19, that they'd seen what they believed may be an explosive device in the area of the 3100 block of Smith Drive in Armstrong.

Two city blocks on Smith Road, near Dairy Queen, were closed after the device was discovered and nearby buildings were evacuated. Smith Drive has since reopened.

Police say the explosive disposal unit disposed of the device so it won't end up it the wrong hands again.

RCMP say the intent of the explosive device being placed in that area is still unknown, as is when it was placed there.

Vernon RCMP spokesperson Const. Kelly Brett told iNFOnews.ca earlier today the explosive disposal unit travelled from the Nanaimo area to deal with the situation.

— This story was updated at 3:45 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, 2019 with new information from RCMP.

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