A World War II bomb that has been discovered some 3.5km off the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal will be detonated on 26 Dec 2000. The underwater blasting operation will be carried out between 1000 hrs to 1200 hrs.

The WW II relic was discovered by contractors, engaged by the Ministry of the Environment (ENV), to carry out soil investigation at the site. This was later confirmed by the Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN) divers to be a bomb. The bomb is estimated to weigh about 500 pounds.

The Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), together with the RSN and the Police Coast Guard (PCG) will be involved in the underwater blasting operation. The blasting procedure will be conducted by the RSN's Naval Diving Unit.

During the operation, the site will be cordoned off by boats from the MPA, PCG and RSN. A total of 6 craft from MPA, RSN and PCG will be deployed for the bomb disposal operation.

Prior to starting the operation, 3 prolonged blasts will be sounded from an RSN vessel's horn as a warning. 1 prolonged blast of the horn will be sounded when the operation is completed.

During the blasting, members of the public should not engage in diving, swimming or any underwater activities within 1 nautical mile (about 2 km) from the centre of the blasting site.

The MPA will continue to issue warning broadcasts to advise vessels and craft in the vicinity to maintain the 2 km safety distance until the disposal of the bomb. The public is also advised to keep clear of this area.

End of Release.