'Unexploded ordnance' found near North Sea pipeline

St Fergus Gas Terminal
-Credit:PA


A probe has been launched after a "suspected unexploded ordnance" was discovered near a major North Sea gas pipeline.

The unidentified device was found around 80km (50 miles) east of Shetland. Oil and gas giants Shell say they are conducting an investigation after the device was uncovered during a routine inspection near the Flags (Far North Liquids and Associated Gas System) pipeline.

According the BBC the pipeline runs from platforms in the North Sea to the St Fergus Gas Terminal in Aberdeenshire.

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Previously, unexploded WW2 mines have been found near to the Flags pipeline.

Shell said the pipeline is still operating as normal whilst they carry out their investigation.

A Shell spokesperson said: "We have discovered a suspected unexploded ordnance during a routine inspection of the FLAGS pipeline in the North Sea in December 2024, approximately 80km East of Shetland.

"We are working with a third party to further investigate and fully identify the object. We continue to liaise with relevant authorities including the Maritime Coastguard Agency, and have positioned a guard vessel at the location.

"The pipeline is operating normally."

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