Team 38 of the Masam Landmine Clearance Project – Yemen has discovered an anti-tank minefield near the populated village of Al-Makhazen in the Midi district, north of Hajjah Governorate, following a report from a local resident.
Community reports have become an increasingly important part of Project Masam’s operations, as years of explosive ordnance risk education (EORE) have encouraged civilians to recognise and safely report mines and other explosive remnants, helping teams reach dangerous areas faster.
Project Masam’s Team 38 last month launched an EORE campaign in Al-Makhazen, where the civilian has now reported seeing landmines in a clear sign of growing awareness and community responsiveness to Project Masam’s outreach efforts.
Years of conflict have left Yemen fractured and communities wary, with deep mistrust often standing in the way of cooperation. But this is changing: through consistent presence on the ground, open communication with residents, and close coordination with returning families, sheikhs, and local authorities, our are steadily rebuilding trust, and turning awareness into active partnership.
According to Engineer Saif Al-Meshmari, Team Leader, the report was submitted by farmer Hassan Bilal, who came across the mines while working on his land. Al-Meshmari explained in a statement to Project Masam’s Media Office that the team immediately moved to the site, inspected the area, and classified it as high-risk.
He urged residents to stay away from the location until clearance operations are completed, stressing the importance of public safety. Al-Meshmari also praised the awareness and cooperation of local civilians with Project Masam teams, who continue their humanitarian mission to clear the Midi district of mines and help residents safely return to normal life.
