The explosion occurred on 20 November 2025 in Hinlap Village, Boualapha District, as the children were foraging for crabs in a forested area about 70 metres from the village road. According to the National Regulatory Authority (NRA), the boys unearthed a small metal object while digging and, unaware it was wartime ordnance, gathered around it moments before it exploded.

Three of the boys were eight years old and two were twelve. Four suffered life-changing injuries: one lost both eyes, another lost his right hand, and two others sustained extensive trauma. A fifth child, who was standing further away, received minor injuries but remains deeply shaken.

Family members expressed anguish at the hospital, with one relative saying: “They were only digging for crabs. They were just playing like children do. Now one is blind. Why does this still happen?”

The NRA, together with local authorities and health-support partners including John Snow Inc. (JSI) through the Medical Support Fund for UXO Victims—funded by the U.S. Department of State—is providing emergency medical care, psychological support and assistance to the families.

Laos has recorded 11 UXO accidents so far in 2025, resulting in 21 casualties, including five deaths. Children make up more than 40% of all victims nationwide.

The BLU-26 “bombie” involved in the incident is one of an estimated 270 million cluster submunitions dropped on Laos between 1964 and 1973, of which around 80 million failed to detonate. Vast areas remain contaminated, limiting farming, daily activities and community development.

Authorities say the incident underscores the urgent need to accelerate clearance operations, strengthen risk education and expand victim-assistance services. The NRA has urged the public to report suspicious objects immediately and warned families and children never to touch or move unknown metallic items.

KPL