The Explosive Ordinance Disposal Department (EODD) of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) successfully neutralized a 226 kg U.S. aerial bomb that had been hindering development efforts in the newly established Taro township.

Supervising EODD Director Staff Sergeant (SSgt) Ansa Puaraua explained that the UXO posed a significant threat due to its weight and instability, making it unsafe to relocate.

Supervising Director Puaraua said as a precaution the EODD established a cordon and conducted a coordinated evacuation with Taro police before safely detonating the device.

Mr. Puaraua said Taro and the surrounding islands remain heavily affected by UXOs, with many devices yet to be discovered. The EODD urges all local communities to immediately report any suspected bombs to Taro Police for safe removal.

SSgt Ansa Puaraua said the operation lasted for three days with the support from Taro police and the local communities.

“I would like to thank the communities for their patience and cooperation during this operation. This is the kind of collaboration we need to have to deal with those war remnants from our places,” said Mr. Puaraua.

– RSIPF