Seven Suspected Hand Grenades Found in Canal – Man Flees with Five, Police Launch Urgent Hunt
A major safety alert is underway after seven suspected hand grenades were pulled from a canal near Lea End Lane during a magnet fishing trip on Friday, 20 June 2025. The situation escalated when the man responsible fled with five of the suspected explosives, sparking a frantic search by West Mercia Police.
Grenades Pulled From Canal – Man Makes Off With Five
At around 7pm on June 20, a man magnet fishing in the canal near Lea End Lane discovered seven suspected hand grenades. Two were left abandoned on the canal bank, while the man — described as being in his 50s, with grey hair and wearing green trousers — took off with the remaining five devices.
Police warn this reckless act poses a serious risk to public safety. Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams detonated the two grenades left behind, setting up a 100-metre cordon that was lifted by 9:15pm once the threat was neutralised.
West Mercia Police Launch Manhunt – Public Warned
West Mercia Police are conducting active searches across Hopwood and nearby areas. In a direct appeal, the force urged the man to stop handling the explosives and contact emergency services immediately:
“If you are the man who recovered the items, please do not attempt to handle or transport them further. Call 999 immediately.”
The public has been warned not to approach the suspect but to report any sightings quoting this incident via 999.
The Hidden Dangers of Magnet Fishing
Magnet fishing has soared in popularity, but it carries serious risks. Many enthusiasts accidentally recover dangerous, unexploded ordnance — including WWII-era grenades and shells – that remain highly volatile even after decades underwater.
“Safety must be the top priority. These devices may appear inert, but without expert assessment, they remain unpredictable and lethal,” police stressed.
This latest incident is a stark reminder to leave suspicious items alone and alert the authorities instead of taking risks.
How to Stay Safe and Help Police
- Report sightings of a man in his 50s with grey hair wearing green trousers near Lea End Lane immediately on 999.
- Avoid the canal area until police declare it safe.
- Magnet fishing hobbyists must never move or pick up suspicious objects — call emergency services at once.
- Follow updates from West Mercia Police and trusted news sources for official information.
Ongoing Investigation: Five Grenades Still Missing
As of Saturday morning, the five missing grenades remain unaccounted for. Police are urgently appealing to anyone in Hopwood, Alvechurch, or Wythall who saw suspicious activity or knows the man involved to get in touch without delay.
