Investigation cites omissions in case of missing TNT from National Guard firing range

Kalo Chorio, Cyprus. Cyprus’ defence ministry said an investigation into explosives that disappeared from a National Guard firing range last month identified omissions and responsibilities that will be addressed under internal regulations. Police investigations are continuing.

Investigation findings delivered to defence ministry

The defence ministry said the findings of the investigation were delivered to it on Friday. It described the completion of the procedure as a substantive step toward the objective and documented recording of the facts and clarifying the conditions of the incident.

Details of the missing explosives

On January 29, around 13.6kg of TNT were found to have disappeared from a National Guard firing range near Kalo Chorio in the Larnaca district during an engineer training exercise, after trainees attempted a controlled detonation.

The missing material consists of two explosive devices used for missile destruction, containing a total of 30 pounds (13.6kg) of TNT.

Search and ongoing inquiries

After the discovery, the area was sealed off and investigations began. Initial checks using a drone and a subsequent site inspection failed to locate the explosives.

What steps should authorities take to prevent explosives from going missing during training exercises?