Three girls were killed by an explosion caused by unexploded ordnance in Sudan’s Blue Nile state. The incident highlights the ongoing dangers of UXO in war-affected areas, prompting calls for increased public awareness and safety measures. Organizations are urging civilians to avoid interacting with suspect explosives and to report them to local authorities.
A tragic blast in Sudan’s Blue Nile state has killed three girls, highlighting the ongoing hazards of unexploded ordnance (UXO), also known as explosive remnants of war (ERW). This incident occurred on Saturday in the town of Bout and was caused by an explosion of a shell. The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N Agar) reported that this incident underscores the critical need for safety awareness regarding potential explosive items in the region.
The Blue Nile state has seen violent conflict, with areas initially held by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) now contested by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). Due to years of fighting, many civilians are returning to previously inhabited areas, which remain contaminated with explosives. To prevent further casualties, efforts must be intensified to clear these dangerous remnants before residents can safely return.
Unexploded ordnance remains a pervasive threat in war-affected regions like Darfur and Kordofan, posing a significant annual toll on civilians, particularly children. Children are often drawn to these hazardous materials, increasing the risk of injury or death from accidents. Organizations are urging the public to refrain from interacting with suspected explosives, marking their locations and reporting them to authorities.
Radio Dabanga has called on listeners to exercise extreme caution regarding any kind of unexploded ammunition they might find. It is critical to mark such spots clearly and report them to community leaders or local police to mitigate risks and prevent tragic incidents. Public awareness and education about the dangers of UXO are essential for community safety in Sudan.
The recent explosion in Sudan’s Blue Nile state serves as a grim reminder of the dangerous legacy of war in the region, particularly the threat posed by unexploded ordnance. With many civilians returning to their homes, there is an urgent need for awareness and proactive measures to clear explosives to ensure their safety. Organizations are advocating for caution and public education to mitigate the risks of further tragedies, particularly among children.
Original Source: www.dabangasudan.org
