World War II-era tank shell recovered during digging work in Assam’s Ledo

A suspected World War II-era tank shell was unearthed at Singri village under the Ledo police outpost in Assam’s Tinsukia district on Wednesday, April 29 during digging work near a local shop, prompting security concerns and immediate intervention by authorities.

According to sources, the explosive-like object was discovered by a local resident, identified as Mohammed Ismail, while soil excavation was being carried out adjacent to his shop premises.

“We were digging the soil when a large metallic object appeared. Soon, we realised it could be something dangerous,” a worker engaged in the excavation said.

Following the discovery, local residents alerted the police. Security personnel and police teams rushed to the spot, cordoned off the area, and initiated precautionary measures to prevent any untoward incident.

Officials suspect the object could be an old tank shell dating back to the World War II period. The Ledo–Lekhapani region holds historical significance due to its strategic role during wartime military operations, including activities linked to the Stilwell Road and Allied forces in the eastern sector.

Bomb disposal experts and concerned agencies were informed for safe handling, inspection, and disposal of the suspected ordnance.

Authorities said further examination would determine the exact nature and origin of the object. Investigation and security assessment were underway at the time of filing this report.