Gwa Twsp villager loses leg in landmine blast

By Admin 03 Jul 2024

DMG Newsroom
3 July 2024, Gwa

A resident from Kyeintali Town, part of Arakan State’s Gwa Township, was severely injured by a junta-planted landmine on Tuesday.

Ko Myint Aung, 29, from Ward-1 in Kyeintali Town stepped on the landmine on July 2 while going to a hill east of the town to forage for vegetables. He lost his right leg in the blast.

“He was seriously injured in the landmine explosion, but the doctor said his condition is considered not life-threatening. He needs cash assistance to receive medical treatment,” said a social activist in Kyeintali.

“Ko Myint Aung, who makes a living by collecting vegetables and cutting down timber, lost a limb due to a landmine blast, and his family is struggling to make ends meet,” the activist added.

A man in his 50s from Yahaikwin Village, Gwa Township, was returning home from the jungle with three companions on June 29 when he stepped on a landmine. He initially lost his right leg in the explosion and later succumbed to his injuries.

Residents of Gwa Township say they have never before experienced the threat of landmines. Myanmar’s military regime in Gwa Township has planted landmines in the forests, along roadsides, near military regiments and around Gwa Town.

“The regime last month issued a public announcement about landmines planted around the town, preventing locals from going to the jungle. The regime has warned the people that it will not be held responsible if residents step on a landmine,” said a resident of Kyeintali Town.

Most rural residents of Gwa Township make a living by farming, collecting vegetables, and cutting down firewood. People who depend on the forests for their livelihood are facing many difficulties as the regime is believed to have planted numerous landmines in the township.

There have been no clashes between the military and Arakkha Army (AA) in Gwa or Manaung townships to date. Myanmar’s military regime has prepared a defence in Gwa Township against attacks from the AA as the fighting in Arakan State has moved closer to the area.