Bangkok: The commander of the 1st Army Region has mandated comprehensive care for a soldier who sustained severe injuries, including a severed left ankle, after stepping on a landmine during a defusing operation in Nong Chan village. The accident occurred as the soldier was engaged in mine clearance tasks, a critical mission aimed at establishing safe zones in the region.

According to Thai News Agency, Sergeant Major Udomsak Nukman, a 44-year-old technical survey officer from the 30th Mechanized Infantry Battalion of the 1st Humanitarian Mine Action Unit, was injured while performing explosive ordnance disposal duties in Ban Nong Chan, Non Mak Mun Subdistrict, Khok Sung District. In addition to the severed ankle, he suffered shrapnel wounds on his left arm. Prompt first aid was administered, and he was transported to Aranyaprathet Hospital, where he is currently receiving urgent medical attention. The soldier remains conscious and is under close medical supervision.

The mine clearance operation, conducted by the Burapha Task Force in cooperation with the 1st Anti-Mine Task Force of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, is focused on a hazardous area of 80,800 square meters. To date, 62,000 square meters have been cleared, marking a progress of 76.73%. The mission has uncovered 489 unexploded ordnance, including PMN mines, MN79 mines, POMZ-2 mines, and one UXO round. The task force aims to achieve complete safety in the area by continuing its clearance efforts.

Lieutenant General Worayot Luangsuwan, Commander of the 1st Army Area, voiced his concern regarding the incident and directed the Burapha Task Force to emphasize safety and vigilance among all personnel involved in the operation. He assured that the injured soldier will receive full entitlements and benefits. The mission to clear landmines will persist with utmost dedication to ensure the safety of the people residing along the border.