KB News Desk
Ganghwa finds 12 washed-away mines in two weeks; Paju steps up safety campaign
Heavy rain across the Korean Peninsula has prompted authorities in areas bordering North Korea to warn residents and visitors of landmines that may have been washed downstream, particularly along rivers and other waterways.
Paju, Gyeonggi Province, said Tuesday that it produced safety materials warning of the risk of washed-away landmines near the Imjin River at the request of local military units, as part of a safety campaign for residents and visitors in the border area.
A total of 24,000 flyers, 40 banners and 45 signboards were distributed or installed along the Imjin River, at Civilian Control Line checkpoints, tourist attractions near the border and fishing spots frequented by visitors.
The materials warn people never to touch suspected landmines, as they can explode from even a slight impact.
Anyone who encounters a suspicious object should keep at least two meters away, place a marker to prevent others from approaching if it is safe to do so without getting closer to the object, and report it to the police or military.
As landmines can come in different shapes and forms, authorities also advised people making a report to provide detailed information about the object and the circumstances in which it was found.
Paju is not the only border area warning of the risk of washed-away mines.
Ganghwa-gun in Incheon said three wooden-box mines were recovered from nearby waters following reports from fishermen on July 27, two of which were found to be capable of exploding.
A total of 12 mines were discovered in the area between July 24 and Aug. 6.
While the military is conducting searches along coastlines, major beaches and islands, local governments urged residents and visitors to immediately report any suspicious objects.
Authorities warned that more mines could be swept into the area as localized heavy rain continues to occur frequently.
