The Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC) reports that civilian casualties from landmines in Karenni (Kayah) State have reached around 100 since the 2021 coup.
This is the list collected by the IEC within its reach.
U Banyar, Secretary-2 of the IEC, stated that landmines are mostly found in villages where military council troops were previously stationed.
U Ba Nyar noted, “The number of civilian casualties is gradually rising. Previously, about 60 people were injured, but when we combine the two lists, that number has now surpassed 70. The death toll is around 20. The total civilian casualties have reached approximately 100.”
U Ba Nyar continued, “Most of the injuries are attributed to the military council’s use of the M-14 mine.”
The IEC has warned residents to exercise caution when returning to their homes and areas where military council troops were stationed, as M-14 mines are highly dangerous and can be lethal.
The M-14 mine, which has been primarily used as a weapon by the military council since the coup, is about the size of a palm. It poses a life-threatening danger to people, livestock, and other animals.
Bo Nay Toe, involved in mine clearance, said, “Landmines are a serious threat to people. They can result in amputations and, unfortunately, can also lead to fatalities.”
Landmines are mostly found in areas and villages, where the military council troops were stationed, he continued.
Civilians have encountered landmines while returning to their homes and during crop planting for their livelihoods after the military council troops withdrew.
Sent by Kantarawaddy Times