By ANEEKA SIMONIS
TEACHERS at a Pakenham primary school received poor marks from police after dismantling a suspected bomb found on school grounds.
At 11.20am on Tuesday 9 June, staff at Pakenham Springs Primary School were alerted to a suspicious looking package located outside the staff room.
Police said the package, which appeared to be a bomb including different wires and a powdery substance, was pulled apart by teachers and later brought to Pakenham police station.
Handling of the potentially explosive package has sparked strong safety warnings by police who urge anyone who locates a suspicious item to leave it and contact police immediately.
“Do not touch devices or packages that look suspicious. They could be potentially explosive,” said Senior Sergeant Nathan Prowd from Pakenham police.
According to police, the bomb squad was notified of the incident but did not attend after the device was dismantled to a state where it was clearly not a bomb.
Cardinia’s Crime Investigation Unit (CIU) is investigating the incident.
CIU’s Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Duane McDonald said students weren’t being ruled out as part of the investigation.
“You never know these days. Kids can get on the internet and make anything,” he said.
Possible criminal charges associated with bomb hoaxes include threats to cause serious injury.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
