By: Camp Correspondent
Shwe Zar, Maungdaw Township – February 19, 2024
Rohingya returnees in Shwe Zar, a border village in Rakhine State, are urgently calling for immediate action to clear landmines that have been left within their homes. The persistent presence of these explosives has made daily life perilous, forcing residents to live in constant fear.
In recent weeks, a series of landmine explosions in the village have resulted in significant casualties. Last week alone, two Rohingya individuals were killed and seven others sustained serious injuries. The situation is particularly critical in Seti Pyin village, where three landmines were discovered inside a single home, with additional explosives reportedly found in other houses across the area.
Despite residents alerting Arakan Army (AA) officials to the danger over a week ago, no measures have been taken to remove the mines. Consequently, movement within the village has become severely restricted, hampering the ability of locals to carry out their daily activities and earn a living.
“Most people in Shwe Zar village rely on fishing in the Nat River for their livelihood, but they are unable to go because of the landmines,” said a resident from Paik The village. “The fields near the border fence are still filled with explosives. The returnees have no jobs, no income from abroad, and no assistance. We are barely surviving. That’s why we need the landmines cleared immediately so we can fish again.”
With livelihoods at risk and security concerns mounting, Rohingya returnees are urging both national authorities and international organizations to intervene swiftly. They warn that the longer these explosives remain, the greater the risk of further casualties and suffering among an already vulnerable community.
