The Arakha Army (AA) is clearing thousands of landmines in Ann Township, Arakan State, to enable locals to return to their homes, according to residents.
The AA is conducting mine clearance operations throughout various locations including the town’s neighborhoods, junta positions where junta troops were stationed, mountainous areas, plantations, battle areas, the Western Command, the airfield, junta battalions, and agricultural fields, residents say.
A man from Ann said: “The army is clearing mines. They’re clearing them at the risk of their lives. Junta troops planted many mines. So far, they have found thousands of mines. They’re finding mines everywhere, even around the houses.”
The AA took full control of Ann Township on 20 December 2024. From then until March, the army has been clearing mines in the neighborhoods and around the areas where fighting took place, according to locals.
Although the displaced people want to return home due to difficult living conditions, the AA has not permitted reentry because mine clearance operations are still ongoing, said a woman from Airfield Ward of the town.
“Despite the hardships of displacement, we can’t return to the town yet because they haven’t allowed us to enter yet. Of course, I want to go back to my home. But army officials say the mine clearance isn’t finished yet,” she explained.
On 16 February, two young men from Tat Taung town in Ann Township were struck by landmines planted by junta soldiers as they went to the mountain, where there is a Telenor communication tower, to pick jackfruits.
One was killed and the other was injured. Similarly, locals report that cattle, buffalo, and other animals have also been killed after stepping on mines left by junta soldiers in Ann.
Sent by Narinjara.
