Saada  — The Saudi-funded Masam Humanitarian Demining Project has announced the removal of 21 anti-vehicle landmines and one improvised explosive device (IED) that were swept into Saada governorate by seasonal floods, posing a grave threat to civilians and livestock in the area.

According to field teams, the mines were carried by torrential rains and runoff from higher terrain into populated valleys and agricultural zones in Saada, a region heavily contaminated by explosive remnants of war due to years of conflict. The discovery was made during routine patrols and emergency response operations following flash floods that struck several districts in recent weeks.

Masam engineers acted swiftly to secure and dismantle the devices, which had become partially buried or lodged in water channels. The project warned that floodwaters can dislodge mines from previously marked zones, increasing the risk of accidental detonation in areas thought to be safe.

“This operation prevented a potential disaster,” said a Masam spokesperson. “Floods don’t just destroy infrastructure — they move hidden killers into the heart of civilian life.”

Saada remains one of Yemen’s most heavily mined regions, with thousands of devices planted during past military operations. The Masam Project, launched in 2018, has so far removed tens of thousands of mines and explosive devices across multiple governorates, including Taiz, Marib, Al-Jawf, and Hodeidah.

Humanitarian organizations have praised Masam’s efforts, noting that mine clearance is essential for restoring safe access to farmland, roads, and water sources. The recent operation in Saada highlights the compounded dangers of climate-related events in conflict zones, where environmental hazards can amplify the impact of war remnants.

Masam teams continue to survey flood-affected areas and urge residents to report suspicious objects and avoid unmarked paths. The project also called for increased international support to expand clearance operations and provide mine risk education to vulnerable communities.