Three residents severely injured by landmine explosion in Hpa-An

June 30, 2025

HURFOM: On June 4^th, 2025, a resident of Phar Taung village, Hpa-An Township, Karen State stepped on a landmine while going into the forest to pick up seasonal fruits and vegetables. She sustained severe injuries to her arms and thighs.

On June 17^th and 20^th, two men from Well Pyan village, Ka Ma Maung Town, Hpa-An Township stepped on a landmine while going into the nearby forest and they lost their legs from the explosion.

“As the rainy season comes, villagers go into the forest to harvest bamboo shoots or mushrooms. They also collect firewood. Then, they frequently step on landmines. Some victims have had to have their legs amputated. The villagers are in trouble. There are no landmines in urban areas, but landmines are in the places where the resistance groups are active and in places near military bases. That’s why villagers are frequently injured or killed by landmines,” said a resident.

The most recent landmine victims were admitted to the Hpa-An General Hospital for treatment.

The area where the landmines exploded is under the control of the Karen National Union; however, the Border Guard Force (BGF) and the junta’s regiments are also active in these areas. It is hard to say which group is responsible for the landmine.

In April, 2025, three young girls from Ward #3, Ka Ma Maung Town stepped on a landmine and sustained injuries.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under News