Residents told to evacuate after high risk explosive found in Christchurch, NZ

Residents near Christchurch Airport have been ordered to leave their homes after a “high-risk explosive” was discovered. Police set up cordons around Sheffield Crescent in Burnside after they were notified about the substance just before 2:30 PM local time on Thursday. An emergency alert was sent to people living nearby. The alert urged, “All members of the public are advised to immediately evacuate the area around Sheffield Cres Burnside Christchurch and the surrounding region due to a high-risk explosive substance located.” Senior Sergeant Craig Ellison advised people to stay clear of the area. He noted, “You can expect an increased police presence as we arrange for the safe removal of the substance. The cordons will be taken down once the area is deemed safe.”