Gardaí search for potentially live shell missing from Glen of Imaal firing range 'danger area'

Coolmooney Camp in Glen of Imaal, Co Wicklow includes a live firing range where members of Óglaigh na hÉireann and other Defence Forces personnel train with live rounds.

Gardaí have issued an appeal for information on a potential live ordnance round which was discovered by a member of the public in Co Wicklow but cannot now be located.

The ordnance, an 84mm illumination round which weighs 3.1kg and is approximately 12 inches long, was spotted by a member of the public in the vicinity of a public walking trail on Lugnaquilla in the Glen of Imaal.

According to Óglaigh na hÉireann, this location is inside a signposted 'Range Danger Area' near the Glen of Imaal Artillery Range.

The signposted Range Danger Area along Route 2 as published on military.ie

84mm 'Illum' rounds, which are most often white in colour, are used for military purposes to illuminate areas during night-time operations. The rounds have a shelflife of up to 10 years.

When the round was spotted, it was partially buried in the ground suggesting it had likely been there for some time.

A graphic of the shell of the 84mm ILLUM round. Picture: An Garda Síochána

However, the round could not be located during a search of the area and gardaí believe someone may have removed it.

Gardaí say there is a possibility the shell may still contain explosive material and as such, it poses an "explosive and incendiary risk" which would be "of significant danger to the public".

Gardaí say that anyone with knowledge of this ordnance should not attempt to further move or transport it, but to make "urgent contact" with An Garda Síochána by calling 999 or 112.

Investigating gardaí can also be contacted at Baltinglass Garda Station on 059 6482610, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666111, or at any garda station.