RIYADH: The Saudi Project for Landmine Clearance (Masam) dismantled 1,184 mines in Yemen during the second week of September.
The figure comprised seven antipersonnel mines, 641 anti-tank mines, 527 unexploded ordnances, and nine explosive device.
Masam is one of several initiatives undertaken by Saudi Arabia on the directive of King Salman to help ease the suffering of people in Yemen.
Saudi and international experts are removing mines planted by the Houthi militia in Marib, Aden, Al-Jawf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale, and Saada.
A total of 273,954 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 de-mining teams to protect civilians and ensure that urgent humanitarian supplies are delivered safely. It trains local de-mining engineers, gives them modern equipment and helps mine victims.
Most landmines retrieved by Masam teams are locally made, while others originate from Iran. Houthis are developing anti-vehicle mines and turning them into antipersonnel explosives to terrorize civilians.
Recently, Masam’s contract was extended for another year at a cost of $33.6 million.
