The bomb was spotted on Thursday, following which residents in a 1-km radius of the site were evacuated.

“We came to know (about the bomb) after the owner of the land noticed it while carrying out some agricultural activity and reported the matter to the police. We approached the IAF for help as the CID said it seemed to be a weapons-grade munition,” Arijit Sinha, Superintendent of Police, Jhargram, told The Indian Express.

During the operation, a Domestic Fire Tender (DFT) was deployed to handle any potential fire hazards. About 5,000 sandbags were also supplied for protective measures. A JCB was arranged for the necessary digging and preparation of the site. At least 20 to 30 casual labourers were brought in to assist the bomb disposal squad.

After the bomb was defused, CM Mamata Banerjee wrote on her X handle, “Yesterday, it came to our notice that an undetonated bomb of World War II was found in an open field in village Bhulanpur, Gopiballavpur in Jhargram district. State government machinery including police and also airforce immediately swung into action. Public from nearby areas were shifted to a safe & secure place. Thereafter, it was safely and successfully diffused. I thank everyone involved for the good work done.”