Police have criticised 'mindless time-wasters' for leaving a crude fake bomb in the street.
The package was discovered by a member of the public in Paignton who reported a box covered in black tape, which had been hidden.
Inside there were five tubes with wires attached, a clock, and a note which read 'boom'.
After alerting experts, the 'device' was deemed to be not viable. It's believed instead it was a geocaching object.
The package was examined by suitably trained officers and it was established that the device was not viable. Inside the cylinders were small pictures of a bomb and the words "boom!"
I suspect the device may be a geocaching object but let's be frank, it's a pretty silly idea.
Kingsbridge Police published details of the 'silly idea' on its Facebook page after being called out on Monday evening (Aug 20).
The device was quickly criticised by members of the public, who described the call-out as 'mindless time-wasting'.
Rob McMahon said: "In this day and age, using something that looks like an explosive device as a geocache is completely irresponsible and a total waste of valuable police time."
While Carol Ann Simmons added: "That has to be the most stupid geocatch of all. Should be a little treasure to find, not a hideous hoax."