Steinbach RCMP confirms that an explosive device was found inside the Steinbach Law Courts this afternoon.

Police and firefighters arrived on scene shortly after a bomb threat prompted the evacuation of the Steinbach Law Courts and all surrounding businesses. The attached parking lot and Elmdale Street too were temporarily shut down to vehicle and pedestrian traffic

After a brief search through the building, RCMP did find a suspicious "robotic device". The bomb squad was called in.

Next, a police dog entered the law courts to scour the area for any other suspect packages. Finding none, the bomb squad proceeded to detonate the device with Emergency Medical Services personnel on standby. The resulting explosion did minor damage to the interior of the building.

Staff Sergeant Harold Laninga says nobody was injured during the detonation and notes the investigation is ongoing. More information on the matter is expected later today.

***Updated Thursday at 1:30 pm***

An alleged bomb threat in Steinbach has forced the closure of several businesses in the city's downtown.

Several businesses and facilities around the Steinbach courthouse have been evacuated. We have been told the Jake Epp Library is also now closed.

RCMP and other emergency personnel are currently on scene.

Elmdale Street has been closed to traffic in that area.

This is a developing story. We will provide more information as it becomes available.

 

***Updated Thursday at 1:00 pm***

An alleged bomb threat at the Steinbach Law Courts has forced the evacuation of four businesses in the complex.

Steinbach RCMP are currently on scene directing vehicle and pedestrian traffic away from the building. The Fire Department is also in attendance and firetrucks are presently blocking Elmdale Street from all traffic.

All employees have been asked to find somewhere safe to stay until the risk level is determined..