BY NED GAGAHE
A suspected unexploded ordnance (UXO) discovered near the Ministry of Fisheries has triggered the temporary closure of both the Ministry’s office and the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Kukum Campus.
The UXO was discovered around 2pm yesterday by workers from a local UXO clearance company conducting a survey on an empty plot adjacent to the Ministry’s building, which is located directly opposite the SINU Kukum Campus main gate.
Following the discovery, SINU immediately suspended all campus operations from yesterday evening.
Police from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Bomb Disposal Unit attended the scene and conducted an on-site assessment.
The removal operation began yesterday but has been extended due to the complexity of the situation.
Speaking to Island Sun yesterday, Moses Haurii of the RSIPF Bomb Disposal Unit based at Hells Point said the UXO is wedged between rocks and partially submerged during high tide, complicating efforts to safely remove it.
“We can confirm it is a single UXO projectile at this point. It is located close to the sea, and during high tide, the sea covers the bomb, which puts us in a difficult situation,” Haurii explained.
He added that the exact type of the UXO has not yet been identified and that there could be more in the area, although only one is currently visible.
“For public safety, we have advised that the public stay away from the vicinity during the operation,” Haurii warned.
The bomb disposal team will resume removal operations today between 9am and 11am. As a precaution, SINU has issued the following safety measures:
- The eastern and western gates of the Kukum Campus will remain closed from 9am to 11am or until the UXO has been safely removed.
- No students or staff will be allowed on campus during this period.
- Students are advised to stay at home and await further updates.
In a public notice, SINU stated: “Due to the serious risk associated with this activity, the Police Bomb Disposal Unit has advised that the SINU Kukum Campus community must take strict precautionary measures during this time.”
A staff member from the Ministry of Fisheries told Island Sun that their building has been vacated in compliance with RSIPF’s advice and will remain closed until authorities confirm the area is safe.
Authorities are urging the public to stay clear of the area while the RSIPF Bomb Disposal Unit continues the operation.
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