Two children injured in South Waziristan landmine blast

Two children, named Imran and Khan Syed, were injured in a landmine explosion in the Azam Warsak area of Birmal tehsil, South Waziristan, on Saturday, according to police reports. The incident occurred in the village of Birmal, where DSP Nadir Khan Wazir informed the local newspaper, Dawn, that the youngsters were swiftly transported to the District Headquarters Hospital in Wana for treatment.

DSP Wazir stated that an initial report was filed and an investigation was launched into the matter. The tragedy once again brought attention to the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance and landmines in Lower and Upper South Waziristan districts. Local residents have reported similar incidents in various parts of the two districts over the past years, with children being the most common victims.

They explained that remnants of explosive devices, left behind after past military operations, continued to pose a threat to local communities in certain areas.

Residents emphasized that children were particularly at risk as they might not be able to recognize or comprehend the danger posed by abandoned explosive devices while playing or moving through open spaces. They appealed to security authorities and relevant departments to conduct thorough surveys in affected areas, identify, and clear remaining landmines and other explosive remnants.

The residents also stressed that systematic mine-clearance operations and enhanced public awareness could help prevent further casualties, especially among children.