The Arakan Army (AA) is currently removing thousands of landmines in Ann Township, Arakan State, to assist residents in returning to their homes.

Residents indicate that the AA is removing landmines in different regions of Ann’s urban wards and townships, covering areas where junta soldiers were based, as well as in mountains, gardens, conflict zones, the Western Command, the airport, junta battalions, and agricultural land.

A male inhabitant of Ann informed Narinjara News, "The AA is removing landmines at significant peril. Numerous landmines were placed by soldiers of the junta. Up to this point, we've discovered that thousands have been removed.”

The AA completely took control of Ann Township on December 20, 2024.

Since that time, the AA has been removing landmines in urban areas and near conflict zones in Ann, a process that is still ongoing as of March this year.

A woman living in the Lay Yin Kwin ward of Ann Town informed Narinjara News that displaced individuals in both the urban area and township of Ann wish to go back to their homes because of challenges in making a living. Nevertheless, the AA has not permitted their return yet as landmine removal remains unfinished.

“Living as a displaced individual is challenging, but I cannot go back since I have not received permission to access the town yet. I wish to return to my home, but officials from AA claim that the mine clearance is still incomplete," she stated.

On February 16, two youths from Tat Taung Town in Ann Township went to gather jackfruits on a mountain close to the town where a Telenor cell tower stands. During their time there, they stepped on a landmine placed by junta soldiers, resulting in one death and one injury.

Residents also state that buffaloes and cows have been killed after stepping on landmines set by junta soldiers in Ann.