BRITISH Transport Police have issued a stark warning after a number of railway detonators were stolen from a rail line in the North-East.
The theft near Villette Road, in Sunderland, is believed to have taken place between 10.55pm on Saturday and 1am on Sunday.
The six detonators, which are safe if handled correctly, are designed to be triggered by impact and emit a loud bang when a train passes over them. In this instance, they were placed on the track and used by rail staff in order to warn rail maintenance workmen of approaching trains.
The detonators are described as small discs, approximately 5cm in diameter with two lead strips either side.
PC Mick Proudfoot, of British Transport Police, said: “The detonators contain mild explosives and emit a loud bang when drivers pass over them, to warn track workers that a train will be coming their way soon.
“They could be very dangerous in untrained hands, particularly young children or teenagers who may see them as a source of fun or entertainment. “Only a few weeks ago a teenager from Essex sadly lost their sight after a detonator accident so I can’t emphasise the dangers enough.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800-40-50-40 quoting reference 28 of 16/09/2011, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.
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