Explosive Found in De Wijert, House Closed for Safety

On Monday morning, June 9th, police found an explosive device on Camphuysenstraat in the De Wijert neighbourhood. A passerby spotted a suspicious object around 10:30 AM and immediately contacted authorities.

Emergency services, including the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, quickly responded to the scene. The EOD confirmed it was explosive material - described as a grenade-like device. The area was closed off for several hours while specialists safely removed and transported the explosive to Meerstadlaan, where it was safely detonated around 2:00 PM.

House Closure and Safety Measures

Mayor Mirjam van 't Veld has closed the house on Camphuysenstraat where the explosive was found. The closure will last for two weeks as a safety precaution to protect public order and safety in the area.

The resident has been relocated for their safety, and police are working closely with them during this investigation.

"We can count ourselves lucky that the explosive did not go off," Mayor van 't Veld stated. "The impact on those directly involved and the community would have been severe, which is why I ordered the immediate closure of the house."

Possible Connection to Earlier Incident

Police are investigating a potential link between the explosive and a serious incident that occurred on Zonnelaan during the night of Friday to Saturday, June 7-8.

In that incident, a 24-year-old Groningen man was seriously injured after being hit by a car. The victim also appears to have been stabbed during the same incident. The man was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

A 25-year-old Groningen man has been arrested in connection with the Zonnelaan incident. He was taken into custody on Sunday and is currently being questioned to determine his exact role in what happened.

Police Investigation

Authorities believe both incidents may be connected and that the explosive was deliberately placed. Police are treating this as a targeted action rather than a random act.

Investigators are working to determine who left the explosive device and what their motive was. They are also examining whether the same people were involved in both incidents.

How You Can Help

Police are asking for the public's assistance with information about these incidents. If you:

• Saw anything suspicious near Camphuysenstraat on Sunday night (June 8) or Monday morning (June 9)
• Have information about either incident
• Know anything about possible motives

Please contact police at 0900-8844 or report anonymously through Meld Misdaad Anoniem at 0800-7000.

Community Safety

While these incidents are concerning, police and city officials are taking all necessary steps to ensure public safety. The quick response by emergency services and the successful safe removal of the explosive show that safety protocols are working effectively.

Residents are encouraged to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to authorities immediately.

The investigation into both incidents is ongoing, and more information will be shared with the public as it becomes available.