German World War II mine discovered off Costa Brava

Divers have discovered a World War II mine with about 150kg of hexolite around 150 meters off the Costa Brava. 

The divers alerted police after locating the mine within the Cap de Creus Natural Park's protected area, between Port de la Selva and Cadaqués in the north of Catalonia. 

A strong 'tramuntana' wind thwarted the Spanish Navy's first attempt to neutralize the explosives on Monday. 

The mine, which was 38 meters deep, was eventually detonated on Tuesday morning, with the Navy's specialized anti-mine unit supported by Spanish police, namely the Civil Guard's underwater GEAS unit. 

Navy lieutenant Juan Pedro Saura explained that the mine was used by the Germans, "anchoring in the south of France to prevent the entry of the Allies." 

Operation postponed 

Security forces reported on Monday that the strong thunderstorm blowing in the area was causing waves of up to two meters at the point where the mine was located. They opted to postpone their operation, with the forecast indicating that they could resume again early on Tuesday morning. 

The lieutenant in charge of the Navy's anti-mine unit, Juan Pedro Saura, explained that the World War II mine of German origin has an estimated explosive charge of 150 kg of hexolite, also known as Composition B. 

Saura also commented that the location and condition of the mine mean it does not pose any danger for the public, although necessary security measures were taken.