Decades-Old Unexploded Grenade Kills Two Toddlers in Cambodia

A rocket-propelled grenade, over 25 years old, exploded in Cambodia, killing two cousins aged two. The incident occurred in an area scarred by past conflicts. Unexploded ordnance remains a significant danger, with millions still in the countryside, contributing to ongoing casualties despite increased demining efforts and renewed U.S. funding for clearance operations.

A decades-old rocket-propelled grenade detonated in the Cambodian countryside, killing two toddlers, cousins aged two, in the Svay Leu district of Siem Reap province. This incident highlights the lingering dangers of unexploded ordnance in areas previously affected by intense conflict, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s involving the Khmer Rouge.

The tragic event occurred when the children, Muo Lisa and Thum Yen, discovered the grenade while their parents were engaged in farm work. Experts from the Cambodian Mine Action Center (CMAC) have confirmed the explosive was a rocket-propelled grenade, showcasing the volatility of aged munitions.

Cambodia is estimated to have between 4-6 million land mines and unexploded ordnance scattered across its landscape, remnants from prolonged warfare that spanned from 1970 to 1998. Consequently, nearly 20,000 individuals have died, and around 45,000 have sustained injuries from leftover explosives, although the casualty rate has declined in recent years.

“The war is completely over and there is fully peace for more than 25 years, but the blood of the Khmer (Cambodian) people continues to flow because of the remnants of land mines and ammunition,” stated Heng Ratana, CMAC Director-General. This highlights ongoing safety concerns even after the cessation of hostilities.

To combat this issue, Cambodia has deployed experienced demining teams, receiving international support for clearance efforts. Recent developments include the reactivation of financial assistance from the U.S., amounting to $6.36 million allocated for demining operations across eight provinces until 2025. This funding is crucial for sustaining demining operations and preventing further casualties.

The detonation of an old rocket-propelled grenade in Cambodia serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing hazards posed by unexploded ordnance from past conflicts. Despite significant progress in demining efforts, the remnants of war continue to threaten civilian safety, particularly among vulnerable populations like children. Ensuring continuous support for demining initiatives remains critical for the country’s recovery and safety.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk