Pre World War 1 Unexploded Bomb Discovered at Għar Lapsi

A piece of unexploded ordnance (UXO) believed to date back to the pre-World War I era was discovered underwater in the area of Għar Lapsi on Saturday, prompting a rapid response from the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM).

The discovery was initially reported by a member of the local diving community to the AFM Operations Centre. Following the report, a specialised Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team from the AFM’s 3rd Regiment was immediately deployed to the site.

Upon arrival, the team established a secure perimeter in coordination with the Malta Police Force to ensure public safety. After a careful assessment, the object was identified as a British 4-inch Armstrong muzzle-loaded shell dating back to before World War I.

The ordnance was safely recovered from the seabed and transported to the Pembroke Ranges, where it was later disposed of through a controlled detonation.

In a statement, the Armed Forces of Malta reiterated the importance of public vigilance and safety when encountering suspicious objects that may be explosive remnants of war. Authorities urged individuals to refrain from touching or moving such items, and to immediately contact emergency services by calling 112.

Members of the public are also advised that photographs may only be taken if doing so does not disturb the object. When in doubt, any suspicious item should be treated as unexploded ordnance and reported accordingly.

Separately, Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri confirmed that AFM bomb disposal personnel were on site and that the device would be neutralised in a controlled manner.

The incident highlights the continued presence of historical military remnants in Maltese waters, a legacy of the islands’ strategic role in past conflicts.

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