CMAC accelerates demining as thousands return to villages

CMAC deminer neutralises a 155mm shell remnant in Preah Vihear province. CMAC

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Synopsis: Organisation deploys advanced metal detection systems and enhanced mechanical protection for operators

Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) has accelerated the clearance of explosive remnants along the border with Thailand to ensure the safety of thousands of displaced people returning to their homes following recent conflict.

CMAC Director-General Heng Ratana confirmed that the agency is fast-tracking operations to neutralise landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO). To improve safety during cluster bomb clearance, CMAC has deployed advanced metal detection systems and enhanced mechanical protection for operators.

“Some bombs remain scattered on the surface, while others are buried deep underground,” Ratana said. “Whether they are shallow, deep, or even submerged in water, they must be thoroughly destroyed as hidden, deadly killers.”

The urgency arises from recent border clashes, which have increased contamination in populated areas, including schools and farmland.

Local resident Bun Thoeun, a shop owner in Sra Em commune, Choam Ksan district, Preah Vihear province, said teams are currently operating outside his home after an UXO was found at his front door.

“The bomb had not exploded, and CMAC is still working to safely remove it,” Thoeun said.

Cambodia remains one of the countries most affected by landmines and explosive remnants of war due to decades of conflict. Although significant progress has been made in mine clearance, contamination still affects rural communities, restricting access to farmland, infrastructure, and safe travel.

Recent border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand, including two armed confrontations last year, have reportedly worsened UXO contamination in populated areas such as schools, hospitals, government buildings, and agricultural land, increasing the urgency of clearance operations.

CMAC’s expanded efforts align with the gradual return of displaced families to their communities. As of yesterday, about 530,000 people—around 82% of more than 640,000 displaced individuals—have gone back home. However, about 115,000 people, including roughly 61,000 women and about 38,000 children, still remain in displacement camps.

In Preah Vihear province, Deputy Governor Kim Chanpanha said that residents of three villages are still prohibited from returning due to their proximity to the border.

“Provincial teams are working closely with CMAC to inspect homes and farmland before communities can fully resume normal life,” Chanpanha said, adding that the clearance is being conducted “step by step.”

CMAA First Vice-President Ly Thuch said that although active fighting has ended, the large quantities of UXO remain, including cluster munitions, artillery shells, aerial bombs, toxic smoke devices, and other military ammunition. These remnants pose a continuing threat to civilians, particularly in areas where people live, farm, and work.

He said that while the commitment to clearing the northeast remains absolute, the rate of progress will largely depend on international funding and the availability of trained demining personnel.

-Khmer Times-