The People’s Administration Team in Mindat Township has confirmed that more than 2,000 various types of landmines planted by the military council forces have been recovered, 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 2,000 mines have already been cleared, authorities warn that more unexploded ordnance likely remains, requiring extreme caution from civilians planning to return to the city. The Mindat 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 defeat of Infantry Battalion 274 based in Mindat on December 21, leading to full control of the city. However, as the retreating military council forces had extensively mined various locations throughout the city, mine clearance operations remain a top priority before civilians can safely return to their homes. The ongoing demining efforts highlight the military council’s indiscriminate use of explosive devices in civilian areas, posing continued risks to the local population even after their withdrawal from the area.
