The People’s Administration Team in Mindat Township, 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 over 2,000 mines have been successfully cleared, Ko Yo Man emphasized that they cannot yet declare the area completely mine-free as there may be more unexploded ordnance remaining to be discovered and cleared. As a result, the People’s Administration Team has issued a special warning to residents returning to Mindat, urging them not to touch or handle any suspicious objects or potential explosive devices they might find in their homes, buildings, or along the roadside. Instead, they are instructed to immediately report such discoveries to the relevant authorities.
The liberation of Mindat began with Operation CB (Chin Brotherhood) on November 9, culminating in the complete defeat of Infantry Battalion 274 based in Mindat on December 21, leading to full control of the town. However, the mines left behind by retreating military council forces continue to pose a serious threat to civilian lives. As a result, systematic mine clearance operations are ongoing, with special attention being paid to ensuring the safety and security of returning civilians. The authorities are maintaining vigilant efforts to make the area safe for civilian habitation, though they acknowledge that the complete elimination of the mine threat will take considerable time and careful work.
