Project Masam’s deminers have destroyed 1,359 landmines, and unexploded ordnance in the Wadi Dufs area of Zinjibar in Abyan Governorate, east of Aden, Yemen’s de facto capital.
In alignment with the global mine action sector, Project Masam’s responsibilities include the clearance, removal or destruction of landmines stockpile and explosive remnants of war.
By destroying the explosive items, Project Masam ensures they can no longer function as designed – this effectively protects civilian populations and helps to eradicate these deadly weapons.
Munther Qassem, Project Masam’s Special Task Team (STT) in the Aden sector, confirmed that the operation involved the detonation and destruction of 567 shells and unexploded ordnance (UXO), 773 various fuses, five Houthi anti-tank mines, two anti-aircraft missiles, 11 Katyusha rockets, and one large shell.
Qassem emphasised that these explosives were cleared throughout November from several areas, in response to reports from security authorities and civilians.
He added that the demolition process was conducted in accordance with international standards for the safe disposal of landmines and remnants of war, at a location far removed from population centres and agricultural areas in the Dofs area.
The STT leader also underlined that the safe disposal of these remnants of war is welcome by local communities, as these explosives pose significant risks to their safety. Removing them allows civilians to move freely and safely across their pastures, farms, and roads.
