On 7 June 2026, the UXO Lao field team in Champasak Province once again received a report from a resident of Phouthongtheung Village, Bachieng Chaleunsouk District, Champasak Province, regarding the discovery of a large bomb.

The landowner discovered the bomb while preparing land for cassava cultivation. The landowner then notified UXO Lao team and requested assistance in removing the bomb from the property. Upon conducting an on-site assessment and verification, the field team identified the item as a 500 pound (approximately 226.7 kilogram) MK82 aerial bomb that remained buried underground. The team subsequently deployed personnel and equipment to carefully excavate the bomb and transport it to a secure location, where plans will be made for its destruction in the next phase of operations.

UXO Lao encourages the public to remain vigilant when carrying out daily activities, particularly agricultural work during the rainy season, when the risk of encountering UXO is heightened. Community members are urged to report any suspected bombs or UXO discovered on their land or within their villages so that appropriate action can be taken to ensure their safe disposal and reduce the risk of accidents.

We sincerely thank the Government of Japan for its continued support of UXO Lao operations in Champasak Province, which contributes significantly to improving community safety and reducing the threat posed by unexploded ordnance.