An unexploded ordinance (UXO) detonated on Thursday evening in West Honiara, Solomon Islands, triggering alarm in the vicinity. The explosion occurred near the Scripture Union building along Lengakiki Road, right across from the Town Ground rugby field. Eyewitness accounts reported a loud bang that raised concerns among residents, leading to a swift response from emergency services.
One person sustained injuries from the blast and was taken to the National Referral Hospital (NRH), where they are currently reported to be in stable condition. The Police Media Unit confirmed the incident, indicating that the explosion was linked to a World War II bomb that detonated near Sol-Lanka shop opposite the rugby stadium. It is believed that the bomb was set off by a nearby fire burning close to a tree in the area.
In response to the explosion, police have secured the site, cordoning off the area to prevent public access while Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams conduct investigations and search for any additional UXOs that may be present. Traffic in the area has been redirected, with all routes leading to and from Lengakiki and Mbumburu diverted through Mbokona Road.
This is not the first incident of its kind in the Lengakiki area; four years ago, a similar explosion occurred that resulted in two fatalities and multiple injuries. The current incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding the safety and management of unexploded ordnance left over from past conflicts.
Notably, the EOD Unit of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has been actively addressing the issue of UXOs in the region. In 2024 alone, the unit successfully disposed of 6,121 UXOs, with 3,200 of these cleared in Western Province as part of Operation Render Safe. Officer-in-Charge of the EOD Unit, Ansa Puaraua, reported that the unit is equipped to respond around the clock to UXO threats and conducts an average of 12 operations in the provinces each year.
Puaraua’s remarks during a recent National UXO Coordination Meeting highlighted the continued risk associated with unexploded ordnance in the Solomon Islands. The EOD Unit comprises 30 trained officers adhering to international mine action standards, and they have undersea capabilities to recover UXOs, further emphasizing their commitment to ensuring public safety.
There is also hope that organizations like The HALO Trust, which has launched initiatives to clear hazardous lands and conduct nationwide surveys of UXO contamination, will improve the safety landscape in affected communities. With the identification of over 34 million square meters of hazardous land, community awareness and support are crucial for mitigating the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance.
As investigations continue in West Honiara, the authorities and community members remain vigilant to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of local residents.
Leave a comment