There have been frequent landmine explosions in neighborhoods within military junta-controlled Loikaw, Karenni (Kayah) State’s capital, where fighting took place, injuring civilians returning to their homes, according to reports.
The affected areas include Min Su, Daw Au Khu, Naung Yar, Na Nat Taw, government staff housing rows, and areas near government office compounds, where civilians have been permitted by the military council to inspect their homes.
These incidents are often caused by residents stepping on landmines, said a local man.
“It’s happening almost every day. Most of the victims are civilians. We can’t even post about it online. Every day, we’re helping people navigate these routes,” said a Loikaw resident.
According to some locals, homeowners paid the junta’s military engineering unit (GE) to clear landmines from their properties, but explosions continue due to incomplete clearance.
The neighborhoods of Daw Au Khu, Na Nat Taw, and Naung Yar are currently experiencing the highest number of landmine incidents, and one local advised against inspecting homes in these areas for now.
“They [junta troops] set the mines but can’t clear them properly. Even homes that paid for clearance are still having explosions. If possible, it’s better not to return to those neighborhoods [Daw Au Khu, Na Nat Taw, Naung Yar] yet,” the resident said.
Since the junta allowed residents to inspect their homes in conflict-affected neighborhoods, there have been reports of injuries due to landmine explosions. The most affected groups include mushroom pickers, vegetable pickers, looters, homeowners inspecting their properties, and those checking homes on behalf of owners.
On the other hand, an anonymous junta employee said that the junta’s administration is compiling a list of civilians injured by landmines.
Currently, the junta has permitted residents to return and live in neighborhoods such as Shwe Taung, Naung Yar, Mong Long, Min Su, Zay Paing, and Shan Paing in Loikaw.
According to local accounts, at least five civilians have been injured by landmines in June alone.
Sent by Kantarawaddy Times.