KOTA KINABALU: The navy successfully destroyed an old explosive or Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) found on the seabed near Pulau Mamutik here, the Navy’s Eastern Fleet Command said in a statement.
Following the successful disposal, waters around Pulau Mamutik, which is under the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, have been declared safe for tourism, marine recreation as well and for the maritime community to continue their activities.
The rusted object, measuring about 25cm, was discovered on June 9 by a snorkelling guide who reported it to the police after informing Tunku Abdul Rahman Park marine management.
“Initial assessment found the object had the potential to be an old explosive that could still pose a risk to public safety.
“Since the location was in coastal waters, responsibility for the disposal was handed to TLDM’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team in line with Operation Planning Committee (OPC) directives,” the statement said.
The operation was conducted through cooperation between the Eastern Fleet Diving Branch (MPA Timur) and the Eastern Ammunition and Explosives Depot (DPBLT).
The EOD team, comprising divers from MPA Timur and DPBLT, carried out a thorough technical evaluation before a controlled demolition was carried under standard operating procedures.
The operation was led by Lieutenant Commander Ts Ahmad Firdaus Zikaria TLDM, who coordinated all phases to ensure compliance with safety standards and EOD protocols.
“The operation was successfully completed safely, orderly, and without incident,” the statement added.
The public was also reminded not to touch, move, or attempt to destroy any suspicious objects found at sea, but to immediately report them to the authorities for further action.
