The Nanaimo RCMP detachment has been partially evacuated following the discovery of two suspicious packages near the police headquarters earlier this morning.
At approximately 10:30 a.m., two cardboard packages were found on a lawn that is adjacent to the RCMP detachment. Out of “an abundance of caution”, part of the detachment was evacuated and the general public has been restricted from entering the building.
A stretch of Fitzwilliam Street between Prideaux Street and Milton Street has also been closed to pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
Meanwhile, an RCMP Explosives Dog has performed a preliminary assessment of the packages and the RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit is currently being consulted.
Police note that the 911 and non-emergency lines have not been affected.
Nanaimo RCMP will provide updates on the situation as more information is gathered.
Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
