China dismisses artillery shell claims about PNG discovery
A 32kg object found in Papua New Guinea is a wine bottle by China's claim, but likely an artillery shell.
Four Chinese nationals were arrested last Friday. A 32kg object was found at a construction site in Port Moresby.
Chinese officials claimed it is a shell-shaped wine bottle and said it poses no danger. The Australia Broadcasting Corporation reported something different based on unnamed sources.
It is likely an unexploded 130mm Chinese Type 59 artillery shell. It contains chemical explosives and a fuse.
Online observers questioned China's explanation. Why would a wine bottle weigh 32kg with no label?
The BBC has not independently verified what the object is.
- 32kg
- Object weight
- 130mm Chinese Type 59 Artillery Projectile
- Identified shell type
- Four
- Chinese nationals arrested
- Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
- Discovery location
Why it mattersThe dispute raises questions about weapons smuggling and the security of cargo moving through Pacific ports. This has major implications for regional stability.
AustraliaAustralia's nearest neighbour Papua New Guinea faces potential security risks if military-grade weapons are being smuggled through its ports undetected.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
