DHQ Warns Nigerians Against Handling Unexploded Ordnance After U.S. Air Strikes on ISIS
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has warned residents to stay away from unexploded ordnance and debris from recent U.S. air strikes targeting Islamic State (ISIS) enclaves in Sokoto State.
The caution follows joint U.S. air operations carried out on Christmas Day, during which American forces fired 16 precision-guided munitions (PGMs) at two major terrorist strongholds in the Bauni forest area of Tangaza Local Government Area, Sokoto State. The strikes were conducted at the request of the Nigerian government, according to the Presidency.
However, debris from the air strikes reportedly landed in parts of Offa, Kwara State, where residents said they heard explosions around the same time the strikes were launched in Sokoto.
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Speaking to journalists on Friday, Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, said specialised ordnance disposal units of the Nigerian Armed Forces had been deployed to recover remnants of the strikes.
“We do not expect civilians to pick up or keep such materials,” Onoja said. “We can only appeal to members of the public to return all items that may prove harmful to them.”
The warning comes amid growing concern over videos circulating online showing residents scavenging debris and suspected unexploded ordnance at some of the strike locations in Sokoto, raising fears of accidental detonations.
In Kwara State, security sources said an undetonated explosive device was discovered at one of two blast sites, prompting increased security measures in the affected area.
Military authorities have urged residents in all affected communities to report suspicious objects immediately and allow trained personnel to handle any explosive remnants to prevent loss of lives and property.
By PRNigeria
