By Deng Athian
A 12-year-old boy lost his life while another 8-year-old boy sustained serious injuries due to a hand grenade explosion in the community of Kootic village in Northern Bahr El Ghazal State.
The unfortunate event occurred last Sunday in Aweil North County, raising concerns about the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance in the area.
According to Aweil North County Commissioner Kiir Chan Wol, the two boys discovered the unexploded grenade near a pond while playing.
In a moment of curiosity and misjudgment, they began to handle the dangerous device by poking it, which ultimately led to the explosion.
He said the incident is a reminder of the potential dangers that such devices pose, especially to children.
He urged parents in the area to take proactive measures by educating their children about the risks associated with handling unknown objects, particularly explosives.
The injured 8-year-old boy has been transported to a local hospital in Aweil North County, where he is currently receiving medical attention for his wounds.