The People’s Administration Team in Mindat Township has confirmed that more than 2000 various types of landmines planted by the terrorist military council forces have been seized, with more 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 Mindat town.
While over 2000 mines have already been cleared, authorities warn that there may still be more unexploded ordnance remaining. The People’s Administration Team has specifically requested returning residents to exercise extreme caution. They have issued urgent appeals to civilians not to handle any suspicious objects, mines, or explosive devices they might discover in their homes, buildings, or along roadsides. Instead, they are strongly advised to immediately report any such findings to relevant authorities. This precautionary measure is crucial for ensuring the safety of returning residents as the town continues its recovery process.
The liberation of Mindat began with Operation CB (Chin Brotherhood) on November 9th, culminating in the complete defeat of Infantry Battalion 274 based in Mindat on December 21st, leading to full control of the town. However, as the military council forces retreated, they left behind numerous mines throughout the town, necessitating an intensive mine clearance operation to make the area safe for civilian return. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of extreme caution until all mine clearance operations are completed, as the safety of returning civilians remains the top priority. The ongoing mine clearance efforts represent a critical phase in restoring normalcy to Mindat, though authorities stress that the process must be thorough and methodical to ensure complete safety for all residents.
