An exercise to test the response of rescue services in case of a terrorist car bomb attack is currently being held at the White Rocks complex in Bahar ic-Caghaq.

The exercise simulates a car bomb attack on the reception area of a hotel, demolishing part of the building and causing many casualties – a fitting scenario for the White Rocks complex given that it is in ruins.

Taking part in the activity are soldiers and rescuers from the AFM, the Civil Protection Department, Mater Dei Hospital. the Malta Red Cross and St John Rescue Corps. Advisers from the Urban Search and Rescue Team of the Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service are also involved.

A number of smoke grenades were set off to simulate the explosion of what should have been a delivery van parked just outside the crowded ‘reception area’.

The exercise involves rescue and onsite treatment of the wounded and safe shoring of the building while the area is secured.

The Merseyside Urban Search and Rescue Team are using state-of-the-art search and rescue equipment, and sharing their knowledge on its use and deployment of this equipment.