Misrata:The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has reported the removal of 14,066 explosive ordnance items from the Al-Sweihli farm in Misrata from January to September this year.
According to Libyan News Agency, this information was highlighted in a field report by the Libyan Peace Organization during a recent visit by a UN team to Misrata. The team met with the Misrata Municipal Council to explore how UN support and non-governmental organizations can help protect civilians from explosive threats, promote safe practices, and raise awareness about safe ammunition management.
Misrata's Mayor, Mahmoud Al-Saqoutri, requested UN assistance for clearance operations in Zamzam, Al-Washka, and Abu Grein, where explosive remnants continue to endanger civilian safety. He expressed support for awareness campaigns and initiatives focused on civilian protection.
Fatima Zreik, Head of the UN Mine Action Service within the mission, emphasized that civilians should not face such dangers. She voiced concerns over unplanned explosions near populated areas and reaffirmed the UN's commitment to collaborating with Libyan partners to enhance civilian safety and prevent future explosions.
The visit underscored the importance of protecting civilians and mitigating risks at ammunition storage sites, especially after a recent explosion in the Al-Sakat area of Misrata, similar to five other incidents in Libya over the past four years, which have contaminated surrounding areas with explosive ordnance.
Technical assessments during clearance operations suggest that non-compliance with international ammunition storage guidelines significantly increases the risk of such incidents. The mission's UN Mine Action Service aims to strengthen national capabilities in weapons and ammunition management to ensure safe handling practices.
The mission team, along with the Libyan Mine Action Centre, reviewed the progress of explosive ordnance disposal and risk awareness activities conducted by implementing partners like The HALO Trust and the Libyan Peace Organization, under a project funded by the Italian government.