Authorities in Berlin have lifted safety cordons and evacuation orders following the discovery of an unexploded World War II bomb in the Mitte district. The police announced Friday morning that the device poses no immediate threat.
Due to the inherent risk associated with finding such ordnance, precautionary measures were initially taken. This included establishing a security perimeter and evacuating residents for the night. Specialized technicians from the KTI (Competent Body for Explosive Ordnance Disposal) subsequently assessed the bomb, which was located several meters below ground, submerged in water and sediment, confirming its safety.
The discovery triggered widespread evacuations in the heart of the capital during the night. Estimates suggest between 6,000 and 8,000 people were displaced from their homes, with many hotel guests observed leaving the area, some visibly disoriented and carrying luggage.
The affected area primarily included the region south of Museum Island (“Fischerinsel”), but also encompassed residential zones between the Spree Canal and Heinrich-Heine-Straße and the area between the Spree River and the Rotes Rathaus (Red City Hall).