Mine event in Turkey, Sivas area, Turkey on Mon 9th October 2023

A Shocking Discovery A local fisherman in Sivas, Turkey, stumbled upon a potentially deadly object while going about his usual routine. Nestled in the mud by the edge of Kizilirmak was an unexploded ball bullet, a grim reminder of conflicts past. The fisherman promptly reported his discovery to the authorities, who quickly sprang into action to neutralize the threat. Unexploded Ordnance: A Global Menace Unexploded ordnance (UXO) refers to explosive weapons, such as bombs, shells, grenades, and landmines, that didn’t explode when they were deployed and still pose a risk of detonation. UXOs can be found in current and former combat areas, as well as on military firing ranges. The deterioration of the detonator and main charge over time can make UXOs more sensitive to disturbance, making them dangerous to handle. Construction work or forest fires can also disturb buried ordnance, increasing the risk of explosion. “It is recommended that UXO not be touched or handled by unqualified individuals,” says a spokesperson for the local authorities. “Even professional explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) personnel are not immune to accidents, as evidenced by past incidents.” The Risk of UXOs In countries such as Egypt, Iran, Afghanistan, Angola, China, Iraq, Cambodia, Kuwait, and Vietnam, landmines heavily contaminate the land, causing casualties each year. UXOs also pose environmental risks, as chemical substances used in explosives can contaminate soil and groundwater. Despite numerous efforts to clear these deadly remnants of war, UXOs continue to be a significant hazard worldwide, and proper handling and disposal are crucial to prevent accidents and injuries. Neutralizing the Threat Back in Sivas, after the fisherman reported his find, the authorities took immediate security measures. Expert teams were brought in, who then destroyed the ball bullet in a controlled manner. The fisherman expressed surprise at how the exploded bullet ended up there, as it was buried in the mud. With the UXO safely neutralized, the fisherman can return to his daily routine, albeit with a story he won’t soon forget.