Clearing path to peace: Azerbaijan’s ANAMA neutralizes hundreds of mines, ordnance

The Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) has released its weekly demining report, detailing significant progress in clearing mines and unexploded ordnance from areas liberated from occupation.

According to the agency's latest update, a total of 35 anti-personnel mines, 36 anti-tank mines, and 574 items of unexploded ordnance were successfully detected and neutralized between April 21-27, Caliber.Az reports.

ANAMA's operations covered a wide range of regions, including Tartar, Aghdara, Kalbajar, Aghdam, Khojaly, Khankandi, Khojavand, Lachin, Shusha, Fuzuli, Gubadli, Jabrayil, and Zangilan. In total, 1,9 hectares of land were cleared, significantly reducing the threat posed to local communities and enabling safer conditions for residents and returnees.

Following the liberation of Azerbaijani territories from Armenian occupation, there are credible reports suggesting that Armenia has intentionally planted landmines in these regions as part of its military strategy. These land mines are reportedly aimed at causing harm to civilians and hindering the return of displaced individuals, thus posing a significant security risk to the area.

In response to this threat, a comprehensive demining initiative has been launched, involving collaborative efforts from various agencies, including the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, and the State Border Service. These organizations are working diligently to ensure the safety of the liberated territories, facilitating the safe return of civilians and enabling them to resume their normal lives.

The demining efforts are part of Azerbaijan’s ongoing commitment to rehabilitate territories affected by the aftermath of conflict, ensuring that previously hazardous areas can be safely repopulated and used for agricultural, residential, and economic purposes. ANAMA continues to prioritize its mission to ensure that the land is free of remnants of war, mitigating risks to civilian life and infrastructure.

By Vafa Guliyeva