AA clears junta planted landmines in Kyaukphyu

The Arakan Army (AA) experts  removed a number of landmines planted by the junta forces in Kyaukphyu township of Rakhine State.

Those mines were planted by the junta’s 34th infantry battalion and  542nd light infantry battalion based in Kyaukphyu locality. Many roads and paddy fields were used for the planting near to  Sai Chone Dwain and Aung Zedi villages, situated across  Nga La Pyawt creek. As those areas are frequently traversed by local people, the AA decided to Clear  those landmines.

"Many  landmines were found in  Sai Chone Dwain and also  Pyone Mo Gyi embankment of Aung Zedi village. The junta soldiers deliberately planted those mines in places where local people moved around. Thus the junta was targeting the civilians," said a resident from Aung Zedi village.

The AA has warned the people to be careful as more areas may contain landmines. The clearing initiative will continue, said the AA.

Many areas like  Nga Pyi Taung, Hnget Pyaw Chaung and  Taung Shay, which are near to the 534th light infantry battalion along with  Pyin Wun, Min Tat Taung, etc villages under Kyaukphyu township were selected by  the junta for  planting landmines.

The residents of Myebon township alleged that the soldiers planted hundreds of landmines near residential areas before leaving the town.

A former Pyithu Hluttaw representative from Kyaukphyu stated that the military junta, which is facing defeat in the Rakhine region, focuses now on targeting civilians.