RSIPF conducts UXO operations in the Russell Islands.

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Department is currently conducting an Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) response and disposal operation in the Russell Islands, Central Province, which commenced yesterday, the 8th of March, and will finish on the 12th of March, 2026.

During this period, the RSIPF EOD team will visit and conduct UXO operations in the communities at Yandina, Lever Point, White Beach, Lingatu, Ilua, Sifola, and Kioleni.

Director of the EOD Department Inspector Clifford Tunuki says the purpose of this operation is to respond to UXO call-outs and identify, assess, and safely dispose of those unexploded bombs from World War II, which continue to pose a risk to communities in these areas.

Members of the public within these communities are strongly encouraged to report any sightings or knowledge of unexploded ordnance (UXO) or suspected bombs to the EOD team when they visit your villages or areas. Community cooperation is essential to ensure that these dangerous items are safely located and removed, says Mr. Tunuki.

As part of the operation, the EOD team will conduct controlled demolitions of UXOs on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, between 8:00am and 4:00pm. Disposal sites will be identified in consultation with relevant authorities, community chiefs, and local elders to ensure that all safety measures are properly observed. Communities located near the designated demolition areas will be notified in advance prior to any blasting activities.

The safety of the public remains the highest priority for the RSIPF. Community members are advised not to touch, move, or tamper with any suspected explosive items, as they may still be highly dangerous. Instead, please report the location immediately to the RSIPF EOD Department.

The RSIPF encourages the entire population of the Russell Islands and the wider Solomon Islands to remain vigilant and to report any sightings of UXO or suspected bombs to the nearest police station or directly to the RSIPF EOD Department on the following mobile numbers: 7495215 or 7495214.

Through cooperation between the RSIPF, local authorities, and communities, we can reduce the risks posed by unexploded ordnance and ensure safer environments for our people.