Swimmer discovers suspected naval mine in shallow water off Pieria, Greece

Discovery of suspected ordnance

On Saturday, June 13, around 5 p.m., a swimmer in the sea off Kallithea, Pieria, noticed an object that turned out to be ammunition material, most likely a naval mine. The swimmer was in the water at a popular coastal spot near Thessaloniki when he spotted the ordnance. It lay at a depth of only 1.5 metres and roughly 10 metres from the shoreline. The object was described as being in an oxidized, heavily corroded state, indicating it had been submerged for a long period.

Immediate response by authorities

The swimmer reported the find to the Port Authority of Thessaloniki. Personnel from the Central Port Authority of Thessaloniki quickly arrived and placed warning markers around the site to prevent accidental contact. The Hydrographic Service of the Hellenic Navy and the Navy General Staff (ΓΕΝ) were informed, together with other competent agencies, so that the prescribed disposal or removal procedures could be initiated. No timeline for removal was given.

Safety precautions and context

The shallow location—only 1.5 metres deep—and proximity to the beach posed a clear risk to swimmers. Warning signs now restrict access pending a full investigation and safe removal. No injuries or evacuations were reported. While the origin of the ordnance was not specified, the incident highlights the latent danger of unexploded munitions along some Greek coastlines.