The People’s Administration Team in Mindat, Chin State, has confirmed the recovery of more than 2000 various types of landmines planted by the military council forces, with more still remaining to be cleared. According to Ko Yo Man, the Information Officer of Mindat Township People’s Administration Team, the military council troops had planted various types of mines not only around their military bases but also in civilian residential areas during their occupation of the town.
While over 2000 mines have been successfully cleared, authorities warn that more unexploded ordnance likely remains, requiring extreme caution from civilians returning to the city. The Township People’s Administration Team has specifically instructed returning residents to avoid touching or handling any suspicious objects or potential explosive devices they might find in their homes, buildings, or along roadsides. Instead, they are urged to immediately report such discoveries to relevant authorities.
The liberation of Mindat began with Operation CB (Chin Brothers) on November 9, culminating in the complete capture of Infantry Battalion 274 on December 21, marking total control over the city. The retreating military council forces had deliberately planted mines throughout the city, threatening the lives and property of innocent civilians. As a result, mine clearance operations have become a crucial component of the city’s reconstruction efforts. The systematic mining of civilian areas by the military council demonstrates their disregard for civilian safety and highlights the challenges facing the city’s rehabilitation process.
