Two civilians suffered severe injuries resulting in leg amputations due to landmine explosions in Mrauk-U and Maungdaw Townships of Rakhine State. On March 19 at approximately 3 PM, Daw San Win May, age 42, stepped on a landmine while foraging for vegetables near the foot of Kyein Mountain in Mrauk-U. The explosion resulted in the amputation of her left leg below the ankle. Daw San Win May, a resident of Thapyay Nyo Ward, is currently receiving emergency medical treatment for her injuries.
In a separate incident, Abdul Haleik, age 44, from Latha Ward in Maungdaw Township, encountered a landmine while fishing at Shwe Zar Creek on March 18 at around 1 PM. The explosion caused the amputation of his left leg below the ankle, and he is currently in critical condition receiving medical treatment. These incidents are part of a concerning pattern of frequent landmine explosions occurring in Thandwe, Mrauk-U, and Maungdaw Townships within Rakhine State, resulting in civilian casualties and severe injuries.
Reports indicate that the military council had previously planted landmines in various locations including mountainous areas where they were stationed, buildings within towns, schools, and monasteries. Despite the Arakan Army (AA) conducting mine risk education sessions and issuing safety warnings regarding unexploded ordnance, the number of casualties has been increasing compared to previous periods. Local residents have emphasized the need for the Arakan Army to intensify their demining operations and awareness programs to prevent further casualties. The situation highlights the ongoing danger posed by landmines to civilians in the region, particularly in areas previously occupied by military forces.
