Unexploded Ordnance in Nauru Disposed of

Australian Defence Force Disposes of Unexploded Ordnance in Nauru

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) recently sent an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) detachment to Nauru to investigate unexploded ordnance on the island nation.

The ordnance, believed to be material from World War II, was discovered at a mine complex and posed a threat to the safety of employees.

The EOD detachment was sent as part of Operation RENDER SAFE – Defence’s enduring operation to provide EOD support to South Pacific Island nations for the disposal of unexploded ordnance (UXO).

The detachment arrived in Nauru earlier this month to evaluate and help safely dispose of the material.

The Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Mark Evans, said unexploded ordnance is a common problem throughout the South Pacific.

“Unexploded ordnance is a troublesome legacy of the Second World War and has been an ongoing problem for the island nations of the South West Pacific,” Lieutenant General Evans said.

“The Australian Defence Force has identified the dangers of UXO and has an ongoing commitment to assist its Pacific neighbours with the identification and subsequent destruction of this material so that island communities can live safely.

“Operation RENDER SAFE is our response to this threat and ensures we continue to provide support through the deployment of trained personnel to deal with this WWII legacy.”

ENDS

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