A home-made bomb built by students at a Hamilton high school exploded with enough force to destroy a toilet cubicle and send shattered glass flying.
The modified artillery shell was detonated at Fairfield College just after lunchtime on Monday, and staff and police are relieved that no onewas injured.
The device, which was placed on top of one of the men's toilets, ruptured a cistern and blew out about 10 panes of glass.
The blast was heard across the school. Principal Caroline Bennett said it was fortunate that classes had resumed after the break. Nobody was in the toilet block.
She said three boys had been suspended. The school was also talking to the families of two other students.
Further action against the students, who had shocked even themselves with the power of the blast, rested with the board of trustees.
The police finished their investigation yesterday. Detective Sergeant Neville Ross said the boys would now be dealt with by the Hamilton Youth Aid section.
Mrs Bennett and Detective Sergeant Ross suspected that a website had given them the know-how to build the device.
"Suffice to say, we are very concerned about the level of both interest and expertise in explosives shown by these students," said Detective Sergeant Ross.
Police could only estimate the artillery shell's size and shape. It was rigged with explosive material and a long fuse.
The damage was estimated at $1000. Education Ministry officials said school explosions were rare and this was the first in memory.
The offenders in this case are likely to be dealt with by the Youth Court, but unlawful possession of explosives in a public place is punishable under the Arms Act with up to three years' imprisonment or a $4000 fine. Further charges may be laid if damage is caused.
Mrs Bennett said the bomb made by her students was "clearly intended as a joke."
"But it made a much bigger bang than expected. It seems they got the biggest fright of all."
