A child and two family members were injured when an unexploded ordnance accidentally detonated in Hsihseng, Shan State, according to reports.
The bomb exploded when the child came into contact with it while picking up scrap metal at a burning site in Area 3 of Thiri Ward in Hsihseng at around 9am on 15 March. The child’s mother and uncle were also injured in the incident, according to a man from Hsihseng.
“The bomb exploded when he hit a pen-sized, inch-long metal rod with a hammer on the burning ground. Three of his fingers were blown off and he suffered serious injuries. His mother nearby was slightly hit in the ears by shrapnel. His uncle suffered minor wounds to his forehead,” the man said.
The seriously injured child is 13-year-old Khun Yan Paing Soe. He not only lost three fingers on his right hand, but also suffered injuries to his left fingers and legs. He is currently being treated at Sao San Htun Hospital in Taunggyi.
Although there is no ongoing fighting in Hsihseng, there are still many unexploded ordnance, heavy weapons and landmines in the area.
After fighting in southern Shan State, more than 10 locals have been injured by landmines when they returned to their homes to collect food and belongings.
Sent by Shan News
