One death and a male person in critical condition after tampering with bomb at Tenaru area

At least one death and a male person casualty in critical condition after tampering with a World War II (WWII) bomb on the eastern side of Hells point, close to Tenaru area on 24 December 2021.

Officer In-charge (OIC) of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), Inspector Tunuki says, “The EOD first responder arrived at the scene and take charge of the blast prime site.”

OIC Tunuki says, “From the evidence located and gathered at the scene indicated that the victims were tampering with the unexploded ordnance (UXO) which cause it to explode.”

Inspector Tunuki says, “Items such as hammer, screw drivers, hacksaw blades, spade and bush knives confirms this. Fresh ground excavations using spades were also seen at the site. Multiple UXOs items were lying around the incident site and others on top of the excavated soil.”

Mr. Tunuki says, “Upon arrival of the EOD team, the victims of the bomb blast still at the incident site. St. John Ambulance alerted and later transported the victims to National Referral Hospital (NRH). The condition of the other casualty is a matter for the health authorities to let us know.”

“Our condolences to the family and relatives of the deceased for the loss of their loved one.”

He says,

“I kindly remind us that bomb are design for two purposes. They are designed to kill and destroy. Therefore, please if you know any bomb around your area do call EOD Team or report it to any nearest police station.”

“Always remember that if you suspect an item that may contain something dangerous or you do not know what it is, then call the Police free toll line on phone 999 or call EOD on phone 7495215, says Inspector Tunuki.