The Arakan Army (AA) has successfully cleared over 200 landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) during a intensive three-day operation in Rathedaung Township, Rakhine State.

From March 17 to 19, AA teams conducted clearance activities approximately 20 miles north of the state capital, Sittwe.

The operations focused on former military barracks, abandoned outposts, supply lines, civilian roadways, and residential villages.

A military source close to the AA confirmed that a total of 196 landmines and 14 other explosive devices were neutralized during the period:

March 19: 43 M14 mines, one RPG-7 grenade, and two 60mm grenades.

March 18: 84 M14 mines, one RPG-7 grenade, and five 60mm grenades.

March 17: 69 M14 mines, two RPG-7 grenades, and three 60mm grenades.

The presence of these explosives has long paralyzed the local economy.

“People have been terrified to enter the forests and farmlands, making it nearly impossible to earn a living,” said one local resident. “We are very relieved by this clearance; it finally feels safe to return to our livelihoods.”

This follows a similar operation in February, where locals reported that 262 mines were cleared in the same township.

The threat remains high across the region. According to data compiled by Narinjara, landmines and UXOs killed three civilians and injured six others—including one woman—in January and February alone.

Advocacy groups continue to urge increased clearance efforts and expanded mine-awareness education to prevent further casualties.