News and Public Notices

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) will lead the safe disposal of unexploded ordnance (UXO) identified in Central Bougainville, with technical support from the Government of New Zealand through the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF).

Following a formal request by the ABG President, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, the Government of New Zealand has confirmed its support and will deploy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists and supporting assets to Bougainville to carry out the operation.

The operation will focus on two World War II-era bombs located near Kieta Primary School and Aropa Airfield. These items have been assessed as posing a potential safety risk to nearby communities and require specialist handling and disposal.

President Toroama said the operation reflects the strong partnership between Bougainville and New Zealand, particularly in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of communities, particularly as Bougainville continues recovery efforts following Tropical Cyclone Maila.

“This operation is about protecting our people, especially our children, families, and communities living near these dangerous remnants of war,” President Toroama said.

“These unexploded bombs have remained a serious risk for many years, and we are grateful to the New Zealand Defence Force for their timely support and expertise in helping us safely remove this threat.”

The ABG emphasises that this is a Bougainville-led operation, with all activities being coordinated under the direction of the ABG, in close collaboration with national agencies, the Bougainville Police Service, and local authorities.

Deployment of NZDF personnel and equipment is expected to commence immediately, with disposal activities planned within the coming week, subject to operational and safety conditions.

The ABG is assuring communities in Kieta and Aropa that all necessary safety measures will be strictly enforced throughout the operation. Temporary safety cordons will be established around both sites, and members of the public are strongly urged to comply with all instructions issued by authorities on the ground.

During the disposal process, residents may observe increased activity, including the movement of defence personnel, helicopters, and preparation works such as sandbagging around the sites. A controlled detonation will also produce a loud noise, which is expected and part of the safety procedure.

The ABG, through its relevant agencies and in coordination with NZDF teams, will continue to provide timely updates and community notifications before, during, and after the operation.

Once the UXO has been safely disposed of, communities will be formally advised when the areas are declared safe.

Communities are reminded that any suspected unexploded ordnance should not be touched and must be reported immediately to the appropriate authorities.  

The program will be undertaken by NZDF with coordination from the ABG Office of the Chief Secretary, the ABG Department of Community Government, National Airport Cooperation and New Zealand High Commission in Port Moresby.

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