UNICEF said it was deeply concerned over the death and injury of children due to an explosive remnant of war (ERW) in Ain Zara on March 18, adding that this incident affected one family and their four siblings which included the death of a 14-year-old.
“According to the information received, the remaining 3 siblings are between the ages of 14 – 8 years old and two of them continued to be in the intensive care unit.” UNICEF reported in a statement on Friday.
“UNICEF is concerned that incidents will increase, affecting children such as in this tragic and unfortunate incident. It is estimated that over half a million people including 63,000 displaced people, 123,000 returnees, 145,000 non-displaced Libyans, 135,000 migrants and 40,000 refugees are at risk of contamination.” The statement reads.
UNICEF, in close collaboration with the government authorities including Libyan Mine Action Centre (LIBMAC) and (UNMAS), is working to ensure that the injured children and their family received sufficient and quality victim assistance.
It also indicated that it continues to support the Mine Action community headed by (LIBMAC) with the support of (UNMAS) and other actors working in the area of Explosive ordinance risk education (EORE).
“Most people at risk from explosive hazards and in need of assistance are in Tripoli, representing 39 per cent of all those in need, followed by Benghazi, Derna, Misrata, Sirte.” UNICEF explained.
It remarked that increased awareness of the risks of explosive hazards remain a critical need to ensure that people living in areas that have seen conflict can go about their lives more safely.
