Thousands evacuated from Berlin after unexploded World War II bombs found

Thousands of people were ordered to leave their homes (Picture: News Agency Germany/Shutterstock)

Thousands of people have been evacuated in central Berlin after two unexploded World War II bombs were found.

One of the bombs was found in the River Spree on Thursday, with German police sent door-to-door ordering around 7,500 people to leave their homes.

A 500-metre perimeter was put in place, with residents evacuated for the night.

But Berlin Police have now confirmed that the bomb was a dud, and residents have been allowed to return to their homes after spending the night in shelters or with relatives.

A spokesperson said: ‘The World War II bomb discovered yesterday during construction work in Berlin-Mitte was located several metres under water and mud.

‘Since such a find generally poses an immediate danger, a security perimeter had to be established as a precaution, and residents had to be evacuated for the night.

One of the bombs was found in the River Spree (Picture: Berlin Fire Department)

‘Only after the people had been brought to safety in this way could our specialist check it this morning using special equipment, and determine there is no danger from the dud.

‘The security perimeters have been lifted, everyone can return. Many thanks to everyone for their understanding and patience.’

The discovery was made only a day after another huge 100kg World War II bomb was found in the Spandau district on Wednesday.

The Spandau bomb is set to be defused today, with more than 12,000 people ordered out of the area.

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