Police called to investigate unattended bag at Abu Dhabi school

The bag was later found to contain second-hand clothes that had been left outside the school grounds. Administrators said the scare was an opportunity to test procedures.

ABU DHABI // Police were called to a school this morning after an unattended bag was left outside the school grounds.

Secondary pupils at British School Al Khubairat were moved to the school’s auditorium while staff and authorities dealt with the situation.

Primary school pupils were not affected.

Staff thanked parents for their cooperation and apologised for the disruption. The bag was later found to contain second-hand clothes.

“An old bag of clothes was left unattended outside of the school grounds. To be extra cautious and follow protocol, local security services were called and advice sought,” said Elaine Rawlings, the acting head.

“We followed their instructions with more caution than was actually requested. They were unconcerned by the incident but wished to follow up thoroughly. The all clear has been given and the school has returned to normal. It was an excellent way to test our procedures.”