At least 100 Fort Carson soldiers remained on lockdown Sunday, the fourth day of a search for what officials called a lost “sensitive item,” without giving a hint of how much longer the lockdown will last, or specific details on the type of item that could be missing.

The term usually refers to gear including weapons, ammunition and night vision goggles, but public affairs officials declined to comment on details about the missing item.

“At this point, the focus is on preventing the removal of government equipment from the installation,” public affairs spokesman Sgt. 1st Class Jacob McDonald said.

“It will be up to the commander’s discretion when the lockdown will be lifted, and we can’t release any specific details of an ongoing investigation.”

According to Fort Carson officials, the entire 800-soldier 1st Battalion of the 66th Armor Regiment was confined to unit buildings on Fort Carson during the search for the missing item, which began Thursday. As the investigation has progressed, the number of soldiers on lockdown has been reduced to about 100, McDonald said.

The incident is cutting into what was supposed to be a long weekend for soldiers at the post, who are off Monday for Columbus Day.

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Denver Broncos tight end Julius Thomas (80) celebrates with wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) and running back Ronnie Hillman (23) after catching a pass for a touchdown against the New York Jets during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)

Bill Kostroun