Saudi project clears 2,183 more mines in Yemen
The Saudi Project for Landmine Clearance (Masam) dismantled 2,183 mines in Yemen during the second week of June.
The figure comprised two anti-personnel mines, 728 anti-tank mines, 1,446 unexploded ordnances and seven explosive devices.
Masam is one of several initiatives undertaken by Saudi Arabia on the directive of King Salman to help ease Yemeni suffering.
Saudi and international experts are removing mines planted by the Houthi militia in Yemeni regions especially Marib, Aden, Al-Jawf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale, and Saada.
A total of 254,918 mines have been cleared since the start of the project. More than 1.2 million mines have been planted by the Houthis, claiming the lives of hundreds of civilians.
Masam has 32 demining teams. It aims to dismantle mines in Yemen to protect civilians and ensure that urgent humanitarian supplies are delivered safely.
It trains local demining engineers, gives them modern equipment and it also helps mine victims.
Last year, Masam’s contract was extended for one year at a cost of $30 million.