Defence Ministry Confirms UXO in Orange Walk Blast Was Military Training Bomb

The Ministry of National Defence and Border Security has issued a release detailing their analysis of  both the Unexploded & Exploded Ordnance (UXO) incident that occurred in San Jose Nuevo and describe the UXO as a MK1, General Purpose Medium Capacity/Aircraft Bomb. The UXO was confirmed to be a training bomb. 

These MK1 General Purpose Medium Capacity Bombs are typically armed with TNT; however, this particular training bomb contained only a “spotting charge.” This charge serves as an exploder, producing a small explosion to mark the point of impact during training exercises. The explosion caused by this UXO created a crater measuring approximately three (3) feet wide and two (2) inches deep. Two additional UXOs of the same type were discovered at the site. These were safely stabilized and relocated by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team of the Belize Defence Force. The Ministry wishes to advise the public that this general area was once used as a training ground, and therefore, similar findings may occur. The BDF Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team, which serves as the national expert authority in such matters, emphasizes that:

• If any person encounters a suspected UXO, do not touch, move, or tamper

with it.

• Immediately report the finding to the Belize Defence Force so that the

Ordnance can be safely disarmed and removed.

• The BDF can be contacted via the email publicrelations@defence.gov.bz or by visiting any BDF

base countrywide.