Vancouver Police said they have safely detonated a suspected improvised explosive device near Columbia and East Pender streets on Tuesday evening.
Officers spotted what appeared to be fentanyl in plain view inside a car after conducting a traffic stop. While searching the vehicle, they located a suspected improvised explosive device.
Officers secured the area and then used various tools, including a specialized robot, to properly disable and dispose of the device.
A 25-year-old Surrey resident was arrested for unauthorized possession of an explosive device and transported to the Vancouver jail.
He has been released with no charges at this time. However, the investigation is ongoing.
“This was excellent work by our frontline patrol officers to identify a dangerous situation and safely secure the area,” said Sergeant Aaron Roed.
“From start to finish, this call took several hours for officers as they worked meticulously to protect the public and ensure the safety of their colleagues,” he said.
