Vanni demining efforts continue

[TamilNet, Friday, 07 June 2002, 22:29 GMT]
Volunteers involved in demining efforts in the Mankulam and Katkadankulam areas have unearthed and disabled 4,887 pieces of unexploded ammunition and mines as of the end of May.

Among the items which have been made safe are: 3,000 landmines, 406 60mm shells, 350 81mm shells, 200 120mm shells, 385 RPG warheads, 385 RCL rounds, and 110 hand grenades.

The Tamil demining unit has so far deactivated 134,000 pieces of ammunition and explosive devices. The unit’s leaders have repeatedly complained of not receiving any help from international humanitarian agencies responsible for mine clearance activities.

The unit operates with assistance from the Tamil Rehabilitation Organization alone. The lack of funds and adequate equipment continues to hamper its operations.