British Transport Police (BTP) has issued a stark warning after a number of railway detonators were stolen from the rail line near to Cottingham rail station.
The theft is believed to have taken place between midnight and 5.30am on Sunday, 14 August, when contractors working along the line noticed the detonators had been taken.
The three detonators, which are safe if handled correctly, are designed to be triggered by an impact and emit a loud bang when a train passes over them.
In this instance, they were placed on the track and used by rail staff in order to warn train workmen of approaching trains.
The detonators are described as small yellow-coloured discs, approximately 5cm in diameter with two lead strips either side.
PC Gary Shepherd of British Transport Police said:
“The detonators contain mild explosives and emit a loud bang when drivers pass over them.
“They could be very dangerous in untrained hands, particularly young children or teenagers who may see them as a source of fun or entertainment.
“We are obviously concerned for the safety of the individuals who have the detonators, regardless of their age, and I would urge anyone who has information that could help us with our enquiries to contact us as soon as possible.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on freefone 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 92 of 14/08/2011, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
