The People’s Administration Team in Mindat, Chin State, has confirmed the recovery of more than 2,000 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 mine clearance teams have successfully removed over 2,000 mines so far, there are likely more remaining to be cleared. The People’s Administration Team has issued a special warning to civilians planning to return to the city, emphasizing the need for extreme caution. Residents are strictly advised not to touch or handle any suspicious objects or potential mines they might discover in or around their homes, buildings, or along roadsides. Instead, they should immediately report such findings to the relevant authorities. This precautionary measure is crucial for ensuring the safety of returning civilians.
The liberation of Mindat began with Operation CB (Chin Brothers) on November 9, with fighting continuing until December 21, when resistance forces successfully defeated and took control of the military’s Infantry Battalion 274 based in the town, achieving complete control of the city. However, as the military council forces retreated, they left behind numerous landmines, necessitating ongoing demining operations before civilians can safely return to their homes. The extensive mining of civilian areas demonstrates the military council’s disregard for civilian safety, as these explosive devices continue to pose a serious threat to returning residents.
