The Saudi Project for Landmine Clearance in Yemen (Masam) announced today the successful destruction of over 4,600 pieces of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the Wadi Dowas area of Zinjibar district, Abyan Governorate. This operation marks a significant effort to remove dangerous remnants of war from southern Yemen.
Masam's First Special Missions Team led the operation, disposing of 4,620 items including 155 assorted shells, 235 fuses, 85 armor-piercing projectiles, 4,096 rounds, 13 anti-personnel mines, 5 anti-tank mines, and 31 hand grenades.

Munther Qassem, commander of the team, confirmed the operation was safely executed in an area away from populated zones and farms, adhering to international standards despite challenging conditions. He stressed the ongoing nature of their work, vital for protecting civilians, even amid high temperatures and difficult terrain.

The clearance comes as UN reports indicate the Houthi group, designated as a terrorist organization, has planted an estimated two million mines across areas they controlled. These mines have reportedly caused over 20,000 civilian casualties, predominantly women and children. Human rights organizations continue to urge the Houthis to provide maps of these minefields to demining agencies.