Police are strongly encouraging people in the country, especially in islands where World War II had taken place, to make sure their area is clear of unexploded ordnance before erecting a building.
This follows the unexpected explosion of a WWI unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the Lengakiki Ministers Road suburbs on May 9, which led to the death of a young man and three other people in serious condition.
Police Commissioner Mostyn Mangau, in his weekly media conference yesterday, said WWII UXO are lying around in most of our islands.
This, he says, is because Solomon Islands was one of the hotspots in the battle between America and Japan for the South Pacific.
“Therefore, the public must be reminded that if you are not sure whether your area is safe to build then call the responsible people to do the clearance,” Mangau said.
He said “there are contractors in the country who have the capability to do clearance of UXO or World War II bombs”.
Mangau also clarified that Police Explosive Ordnance team are currently not doing the clearance. However, he says they are responsible to collect and dispose bombs – “once they are found in your area”.
The police commissioner did not give any specific information on just who exactly are the companies or individuals on whom public can all upon to do UXO clearance.
