Two young villagers suspected for landmine explosion

By Cha Lu Aung 22 Apr 2019

Cha Lu Aung/ DMG

April 22, Maungdaw

Two young men have been questioned by the Tatmadaw regarding a landmine explosion on the evening of April 21 near Kaing Gyi village, south of Maungdaw Township, said a village administrator.

Two landmines exploded on the road and near a bridge, but there were no damages or injuries.

Two young men from Mawrawady village, near Kaing Gyi village living with Mro people, have been questioned at the border guard police station, said U Tha Tun Oo, administrator for Mawrawady village.

After the mine explosion some people from the village took shelter in the village monastery because they were concerned for their safety, so they were questioned by the Tatmadaw, but not detained, he added.

“The army questioned villagers who fled to the monastery after the mine explosion.  They brought two young villagers in for questioning. The youths are not guilty. Authorities said they will release them after questioning,” he said.

The DMG tried to contact a spokesperson for the Tatmadaw for comment, but could not reach any relevant officials.

“We’ve heard that a mine exploded. It happened when a truck passed the area, but there was no damage. A Tactical Operations Commander inspected the area this morning,” said U San Tun from Kaing Gyi village.

A vehicle carrying members of a border guard force hit a landmine on the morning of April 22 between Lake Yan ad Thae Chaung villages, north of Maungdaw Township.