“If Bars Have ‘No Under 18’, What About Scrapyard Companies?” — Sikanduko Residents Raise Alarm Over Children Selling Scrap Metal
By TUW
A community information-sharing session held today in Sikanduko brought together members of the police force and the army to raise awareness about the dangers of explosive devices that are still occasionally found in surrounding areas.
During the session, security officials demonstrated several types of explosive devices that community members may come across, warning that many of these remnants are believed to originate from past conflict situations. Authorities emphasized that lack of information remains one of the biggest risks, as people—especially children—may unknowingly come into contact with dangerous objects.
The session follows a recent incident in which two children from Mavanze village were injured after encountering an explosive device, raising renewed concern about safety in rural communities.
Speaking at the gathering, a police representative said ignorance about explosive hazards, combined with informal scrap metal collection, is putting lives at serious risk. He noted that more young children are now collecting metal objects to sell to scrapyard companies, often without understanding the dangers involved.
“Lack of information is the major problem. The issue of selling scrap metals to scrapyard companies is also contributing, because even young children are now looking for metals to sell. Those who do not know what these explosive devices are are putting their lives at risk,” he said.
Community members also expressed concern about the operations of scrapyard businesses, questioning the lack of strict enforcement to prevent children from selling scrap metal. They argued that stronger regulations are needed to ensure that minors are not involved in the trade.
One resident compared scrapyard regulation to other businesses that enforce age restrictions.
“Just like at bars where there is a clear notice saying ‘no under 18’, scrapyard companies should also have strict rules. Our children are exposed and at risk,” she said.
Residents further raised concerns about the theft of copper wire and other metal infrastructure, saying such materials are often sold to scrapyard dealers, contributing to criminal activity in the communities.
During the session, one man informed authorities that he may have similar suspicious objects on his land in the Sauyemwa area. He explained that such items had previously been found in his field and were moved aside, where they were treated as ordinary scrap metal. He was then asked whether he could accompany officials to the site for inspection, and he confirmed that he could. It was agreed that after the session, he would lead police to the area for verification and safe assessment.
In a related concern, one woman shared that during fieldwork such as ploughing and weeding, they occasionally come across metal objects buried in the soil. She was advised to always report any such findings immediately instead of handling them. Authorities stressed that community members must remain alert, as explosive devices can remain hidden underground for long periods and may surface over time due to farming activities or soil movement. They further urged that any unidentified metal object should be reported to the police for proper inspection and safety handling.
Authorities reiterated their call for vigilance, urging community members to immediately report any suspicious objects and to educate children about the dangers of unknown metal items.
