Ombudsman’s Reaction to Mine Explosion in Gushchu Ayrim Village of Gazakh District

Landmines planted by Armenia in our territories continue seriously endangering the lives and health of civilians and military servicemen.     

On 14 October, one civilian was hit by an anti-personnel mine in Gushchu Ayrim village of Gazakh district. 

We have to note that since the Second Karabakh War up to date, more than 380 people have fallen victim to landmines, and unfortunately, this tragic statistic continues to rise. 

Armenia’s failure to provide our country with accurate maps of mines planted in our territories not only seriously violates the right to life and right to health but also seriously hinders the safe return of our former IDPs to their homes, the realization of their right to live in a healthy environment, and re-construction and restoration works in the region. In addition, the detonation of those mines results in water and air pollution, degradation of soil structure, and, overall, leads to an environmental crisis.    

The international community should seriously influence Armenia to provide us with the accurate maps of minefields and should speak out against the mine terror of this country, as well as respond firmly to war and environmental crimes and humanitarian violations committed.