NSDF Authorities to Examine UXO Processes at Military Morgues

New Zealand The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is re-examining its procedures for processing the bodies of fatally wounded service members from Afghanistan after EOD was called to the Christchurch Hospital to retrieve live ammunition. The type of ammunition was not reported but NZDF officials did comment that the live ammunition was found in the personnel protective equipment worn by the soldier at the time of his death. The ammunition was safely removed from the hospital morgue and disposed of by EOD. Authorities are concerned that personnel responsible for transporting the body including hospital personnel and potentially patients were put at risk.