ADJUMANI, September 5, 2025 – A suspected hand grenade was discovered in a maize and simsim garden in Tiolo Cell, Nyivura Ward, Pakele Town Council, Adjumani District, prompting an immediate response from local authorities.

The find, reported on April 5, 2025, at approximately 9:00 AM by resident Ms. Chandia Florence, has raised concerns due to the region’s history of unexploded ordnance.

According to the Pakele Police Station (SDREF: 07/04/09/2025), a team dispatched to the scene confirmed the presence of an old, unexploded device with its safety pin secured by a rubber rope, located in an open area of the garden. Authorities suspect the grenade was placed there by an unknown individual.

SP Asea Collins, North West Nile Region Police Commander, stated that bomb experts from Uganda Police Headquarters are en route to deploy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists to safely remove and neutralize the device. “We urge the public to remain calm and avoid unnecessary panic,” SP Collins said, emphasizing that the police are actively investigating and will provide updates as the situation develops.

This incident recalls a tragic 2021 explosion in Okawa village, Pakelle Sub-County, where a hand grenade, believed to be a remnant of the Lord’s Resistance Army insurgency, killed two people and injured two others. The discovery underscores the persistent danger of unexploded ordnance in the region.

The police have advised residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious objects immediately without touching them. For emergencies, contact 911 or the nearest police station.