On August 28, while conducting clearance operations in Xuan Village of Kim Thạch Commune, Vinh Linh District, Quang Tri Province, NPA/RENEW teams made a startling discovery: a cache containing 24 unexploded cluster bombs. This is one of the largest discoveries of cluster bombs on a single day in the area to date, according to Mai Van Viet, NPA/RENEW Operations Manager.
Despite working in harsh weather conditions and challenging terrain, with sudden rain showers and scorching heat, the clearance teams remained committed to their task. Thanks to the use of precise detectors and high levels of expertise, they quickly located the bomb cache and successfully detonated the cluster munitions on site.
For many years, unexploded ordnance left over from the war has killed and injured many people. Kim Thạch commune has experienced 40 accidents caused by unexploded ordnance, resulting in 19 deaths and 21 injuries. Cluster bombs account for 50% of all accidents in the area. As a result, local residents have lived in constant fear.
“The discovery and neutralization of such a large number of cluster bombs make us both proud and satisfied,” said team leader Trần Xuân Hùng. “We are all committed to our mission of clearing land for the local community.”
The successful discovery and disposal of such a large number of cluster bombs not only ensures the safety of over 1,200 people directly benefiting from the vital work of NPA/RENEW in Vĩnh Thạch commune but also significantly contributes to environmental restoration, helping people live and work in peace.
The successful destruction of 24 cluster bombs is an encouraging result, but the road ahead is still long. For Quang Tri to truly become safe from the impact of bombs and mines, we need the collective efforts of the entire community. Every individual and organization should join hands to completely eliminate the threat of unexploded ordnance and bring peace and happiness to the people here.
We would like to express our gratitude to the governments of the United States and Norway for funding this project, making a significant contribution to the effort to overcome the consequences of war in Vietnam.
