Phu Tho (VNA) – Military forces in the northern province of Phu Tho successfully detonated a CBU-87 cluster bomb left over from the war, which was previously discovered in Tu Vu commune, near the Da River.
According to the provincial Military Command, the bomb, measuring about 1.8 metres in length and 0.4 metres in diameter, was an exploded American-made CBU-87 cluster munition dropped during the war. Technical documents note that such “mother” bombs have auxiliary explosions that are capable of causing severe casualties if detonated.
The bomb was first found on September 16 by local residents, who promptly reported it to the commune's authorities. The People’s Committee of Tu Vu commune immediately blocked off the area, installed warning signs and maintained round-the-clock security to prevent public access.
On September 24, military forces transferred the bomb from the riverbank in Tu Vu to the Yen Mong training ground in Tan Hoa ward, about 30 kilometres away, for disposal.
Police, militia and other units were deployed along the route to direct traffic, guard the convoy and ensure security and safety. At the training ground, the disposal team used 15 kilogrammes of TNT directly attached to the cluster bomb, detonated by electric ignition, in line with strict safety procedures.
Lt. Col. Pham Minh Dang, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Phu Tho Military Command, who oversaw the operation, said the disposal was carried out in strict accordance with regulations, ensuring absolute safety for both residents and relevant forces.
He stressed that close coordination between the army, police and local authorities was crucial to the success of the mission, safeguarding the community and maintaining public order./.
