Operation Render Safe to Return

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(Solomon Times) In September, over 200 personnel will deploy to Western Province, Solomon Islands, for Operation Render Safe to identify and destroy unexploded ordnance (UXO) from World War II. This joint effort between the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is the first full-scale operation in the Solomon Islands since before COVID-19 and the largest land-based Render Safe activity ever. The ADF has worked with the RSIPF Explosive Ordnance Department (EOD) to enhance its capabilities with new equipment and advanced training.

Recently, a reconnaissance team of RSIPF and military EOD specialists visited Munda to survey the area, consult with the local community, and plan the operation. During the three-week mission, the RSIPF EOD Department will be supported by military UXO specialists, including eight land and two maritime teams. Operation Render Safe will focus on safely disposing of UXOs in Western Province, improving regional security.