A bomb exploded inside the Australia Post box at the front of the Cannons Creek General Store, igniting hundreds of undelivered letters and destroying the box.A BOMB that exploded in a Cannons Creek post box on Saturday night has left locals fearful of what will be next.
Residents were woken with a bang when the device was detonated about 10pm at the front of the Cannons Creek General Store.
The Australia Post box was engulfed in flames as hundreds of burning letters were scattered throughout the area.
A witness said she heard the explosion and saw smoke and fire as she ran out to investigate.
“There were letters all over the place. We thought it was the shop,” the witness said.
“The police and the CFA were called, but most of the box was destroyed.”
It is a federal offence to tamper with mail.
Police said the explosion blew off the door of the post box, destroyed the contents and caused a small fire.
Detective Sergeant Larry Grimshaw said a witness reported seeing a man and a woman drive away from the scene in an early ’90s model car, possibly a Ford or Holden.
He said police were extremely concerned about the recent spate of explosions in the Cranbourne area and warned of the dangers of experimenting with homemade devices.
“Whether you are using fire crackers or other devices, it can be very dangerous, potentially life threatening,” he said.
“Theses devices shouldn’t even be handled. History shows these things can go wrong.
“People have lost limbs and even their lives through these acts of stupidity.
“If anyone knows of someone who is playing with explosive devices they should contact police.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Detective Senior Constable Rod Maroney at Cranbourne CIU on 5005 4577.
