A decades-old rocket-propelled grenade killed two young cousins in rural Cambodia, highlighting the dangers of unexploded ordnance in areas previously affected by conflict. The incident reflects the ongoing threat posed by millions of land mines left from wars. Despite demining efforts, casualties persist among the Cambodian population, with funding for these initiatives being crucial for safety.
A rocket-propelled grenade, over 25 years old, tragically killed two toddlers—Muo Lisa and Thum Yen—aged two in rural northwestern Cambodia. The incident, which occurred on Saturday in Siem Reap province’s Svay Leu district, was linked to areas previously marked by intense combat between government forces and Khmer Rouge guerillas during the late 20th century.
While their parents were engaged in farm work, the young children stumbled upon unexploded ordnance that detonated. The Cambodian Mine Action Center later confirmed the remnants were from a rocket-propelled grenade, highlighting the persistent danger of outdated explosive materials that deteriorate over time and become unstable.
According to Heng Ratana, Director-General of the Cambodian Mine Action Center (CMAC), the parents, unaware of the land’s hazardous history as a former battlefield, faced a tragic situation. Approximately 4 to 6 million land mines and unexploded munitions remain scattered across Cambodia, remnants of conflicts lasting from 1970 to 1998.
Since the cessation of hostilities, Cambodia has witnessed nearly 20,000 fatalities and around 45,000 injuries from such explosives. Although casualties have decreased, last year still reported 49 deaths, illustrating the ongoing peril associated with land mines.
“The war is completely over and there is fully peace for more than 25 years, but the blood of the Khmer people continues to flow because of the remnants of land mines and ammunition,” Heng Ratana noted in a statement on Facebook. This highlights the enduring impact of unresolved war legacies on civilian safety.
The Cambodian demining force is recognized among the world’s most skilled, with many deployed under U.N. programs in areas such as Africa and the Middle East in the past decade. Recent funding discussions indicated that U.S. aid for demining efforts in eight provinces was suspended but has now resumed due to a waiver permitting $6.36 million to extend from March 2022 to November 2025.
The tragic deaths of two toddlers in Cambodia underscore the persistent threat posed by unexploded ordnance from past conflicts. Despite peace prevailing for over 25 years, the remnants of war continue to endanger lives. Ongoing demining efforts are vital to mitigate these risks, ensuring that the legacies of conflict do not continue to inflict harm on innocent civilians.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
