A SUSPECTED unexploded bomb has been discovered at an oil pipeline in the North Sea.
An investigation has been launched after the unexploded ordnance was discovered during a routine inspection of the Flags pipeline, around 40 miles east of Shetland, in December last year.
Shell confirmed it is working with a third party to investigate the incident.
The Flags pipeline transports natural gas from the Brent field in the North Sea to the Scottish mainland.
Shell also confirmed a guard vessel has been stationed at the pipeline as work at Brent field continues as normal.
A spokesperson for the oil firm said: “We are working with a third party to further investigate and fully identify the object.
“We continue to liaise with relevant authorities including the Maritime Coastguard Agency, and have positioned a guard vessel at the location.”
A spokesperson for the Maritime Coastguard Agency said: "The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is liaising with Shell UK Limited after suspected ordnance was found in the North Sea in December 2024, around 80km east of Shetland." .
