Hand Grenade Shell Found in Kandla SEZ: Used by US Army Between 1920-1960

Empty Hand Grenade Shell Found in Kandla SEZ: Panic Ensues, Later Declared Safe

In a recent incident at Kandla Special Economic Zone (KASEZ), an empty hand grenade shell was discovered during the sorting of imported used clothes. This discovery caused an immediate response from security agencies, but after investigation, it was confirmed that the grenade was a non-explosive shell.

Hand Grenade Found in Imported Used Clothes Container

The hand grenade shell was found inside a container of used clothes imported from the United States. Authorities, including the Gandhidham B Division Police and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad, swiftly reached the site. Upon investigation, they discovered that the grenade was empty and posed no threat. The container was part of a consignment received at Flex Apparels, a unit within KASEZ.

Used by the US Army Between 1920 and 1960

The hand grenade found was identified as an MK-2 Pineapple Hand Grenade, used by the US Army between 1920 and 1960. This type of grenade was widely deployed during World War II and the Vietnam War. It was officially phased out of use in the 1960s. Despite being non-functional, such grenades are sought after by antique collectors, and replicas or dummy grenades are often sold online.

Possible Antique or Dummy Grenade

Given the high demand for such items among military memorabilia collectors, authorities believe the grenade could have been a dummy or an antique piece. Investigations are ongoing to determine how the grenade shell ended up in the shipment of used clothes.

Concerns Over Inadequate Scanning of Containers

This incident has highlighted concerns regarding the scanning procedures for imported containers. KASEZ is home to more than 20 units dealing with used clothing imports, and this discovery once again raised questions about the thoroughness of security checks. In some cases, valuable or hazardous items have been found alongside regular imports, emphasizing the need for improved scanning protocols.