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BREAKING NEWS: Bomb Found in Essen, Exposed on Street Until Defused
Timeline of Events
* **10:45 AM:** A construction worker discovered a WWII-era bomb while working on a construction site in Essen, Germany.
* **11:00 AM:** Police and emergency services were called to the scene and evacuated nearby buildings and streets.
* **12:00 PM:** Experts from the bomb disposal squad arrived and began assessing the situation.
* **1:00 PM:** The bomb was identified as a 250-kilogram (550-pound) British high-explosive bomb.
* **2:00 PM:** The bomb was deemed too dangerous to move and a controlled explosion was planned.
* **3:00 PM:** The controlled explosion was successfully carried out, destroying the bomb without causing any injuries or damage to surrounding buildings.
Current Situation
* The area around the bomb site has been reopened to the public.
* Traffic has resumed in the area.
* The bomb disposal squad is continuing to investigate the site for any other potential hazards.
Expert Analysis
"This was a very dangerous situation," said a spokesperson for the bomb disposal squad. "The bomb was in a very unstable condition and could have detonated at any time. We are very grateful that no one was injured."
"It is a reminder of the dangers that still exist from unexploded ordnance from World War II," said a historian from the University of Essen. "We are fortunate that this bomb was found and defused before it could cause any harm."
Advice for the Public
* If you see any suspicious object, do not touch it.
* Call the police or emergency services immediately.
* Stay away from the area until the authorities have declared it safe.