RCMP explosive disposal team called to Port Alberni home

An RCMP explosive disposal unit was called to Port Alberni on Wednesday to help dispose of “suspect explosive components.”

Mounties say the potential explosives were found at a home in the 4800-block of Burde Street earlier this week.

The investigation began on March 25 when police were called to check on the safety of a woman in the area.

Once there, police say they spotted a restricted firearm in the home, and requested a search warrant for a more thorough review.

The search warrant was executed on March 26, at which point Mounties say they found components that could be used to make an explosive device.

The RCMP explosive disposal unit arrived at the home on Wednesday and destroyed some of the items that were considered too volatile to transport somewhere else. Other materials will be taken to a location outside the city for a controlled disposal.

Mounties say Joseph Walczak was also arrested during the investigation and is facing two charges, including unsafe storage of a firearm and failure to comply with a release order, though more charges may be recommended as the investigation continues.

In a social media post Wednesday afternoon, police asked residents to stay away from the 4800-block of Burde Street until 3 p.m. Wednesday due to the potential explosive disposal.

SEE ALSO: East Sooke crash investigation ends in 2 arrests, discovery of explosive device and assault

The 4800-block of Burde Street is shown on March 27, 2024. (CHEK News)

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