RCMP bomb squad called to investigate mysterious Penticton explosions

Penticton RCMP have called in the RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit to help investigate a serious of explosions in the city.

Several reports of loud explosions taking place in various places throughout the city have been received by police in recent weeks, according to an RCMP media release.

The explosions have been heard late in the evening and into early morning hours. More explosions may have taken place over the past several weeks but were not reported.

Police have identified two locations where improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, were detonated, including a school yard and a park.

The first confirmed IED detonation occurred in King’s Park soccer field on March 7. No suspects have been located and minimal damage was reported at the site.

Officers responded to the second known IED detonation on March 8 on the Carmi Elementary School grounds.

No damage or injuries were reported.

“We want to remind the public to report any suspicious packages, sounds, or people they may observe in their neighbourhoods or while at work," Penticton RCMP spokesperson Const. James Grandy said in the release.

"We’re continuing to… conduct neighbourhood inquiries, looking for witnesses, especially those who may have CCTV near these locations.”

If you witnessed any of these incidents, or have any other information, you’re asked to call the Penticton RCMP at 250-492-4300, or remain completely anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.


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Steve Arstad

I have been looking for news in the South Okanagan - SImilkameen for 20 years, having turned a part time lifelong interest into a full time profession. After five years publishing a local newsletter, several years working as a correspondent / stringer for several local newspapers and seven years as editor of a Similkameen weekly newspaper, I joined iNFOnews.ca in 2014. My goal in the news industry has always been to deliver accurate and interesting articles about local people and places. My interest in the profession is life long - from my earliest memories of grade school, I have enjoyed writing.
As an airborne geophysical surveyor I travelled extensively around the globe, conducting helicopter borne mineral surveys.
I also spent several years at an Okanagan Falls based lumber mill, producing glued-wood laminated products.
As a member of the Kaleden community, I have been involved in the Kaleden Volunteer Fire Department for 22 years, and also serve as a trustee on the Kaleden Irrigation District board.
I am currently married to my wife Judy, of 26 years. We are empty-nesters who enjoy living in Kaleden with our Welsh Terrier, Angus, and cat, Tibbs.
Our two daughters, Meagan and Hayley, reside in Richmond and Victoria, respectively.

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