Victims tampered with bomb causing it to explode

Police have confirmed that from the evidence they located and gathered at the site of the bomb blast at Tenaru yesterday indicated that the victims were tampering with the unexploded ordnance (UXO) which caused it to explode.

One person was killed at the scene and another male was still in critical condition at the NRH after tampering with a World War II (WWII) bomb on the eastern side of Hells point, close to Tenaru.

As more details emerged today, 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 took charge of the blast prime site.

 He said items such as hammer, screw drivers, hacksaw blades, spade and bush knives confirmed tampering with the bomb.

“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,” Tunuki said. 

 Tunuki confirmed stating that upon arrival of the EOD team, the victims of the bomb blast were still at the incident site and St. John Ambulance were 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.”

 Meanwhile Tunuki says, “I kindly remind us that bombs are designed for two purposes, to kill and destroy. Therefore, please if you know any bombs around your area do call the 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.

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