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Cambodian Landmine Detection Rat Sets New World Record
A rodent in Cambodia renowned for locating landmines has achieved a new global milestone, having successfully sniffed out over 100 explosive devices. Ronin, a giant African pouched rat, has identified 109 landmines and 15 additional hazardous war remnants since commencing his crucial work in Preah Vihear province in August 2021, according to the APOPO charity.
Ronin: Top Performing Mine Detection Rat
The five-year-old rat has been officially recognized as the most successful Mine Detection Rat (MDR) in the history of the APOPO organization. This remarkable achievement also earns him a Guinness World Record for the highest number of landmines detected by a rat.
Surpassing Previous Record Holder Magawa
Ronin’s significant contributions to mine clearance enabled him to surpass the previous record holder, Magawa. Magawa, during his five years of service before retirement in 2021, located 71 landmines and 38 items of unexploded ordnance (UXOs) – munitions that failed to detonate upon deployment. The distinguished Magawa was posthumously awarded a gold medal for his heroic efforts in clearing mines from approximately 225,000 square meters of terrain before his passing in 2022.
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The prolific rodent has been named the most successful Mine Detection Rat (MDR) in the organisation’s history
Ronin has tracked down 109 landmines and 15 other potentially deadly war remnants since his deployment to northern Preah Vihear province in Cambodia in August 2021
Key to Ronin’s Success
Lily Shallom, from APOPO, attributes Ronin’s effectiveness to his combination of diligence and amiable, composed nature. According to Shallom, ‘Ronin’s success likely stems from his intense concentration, strong work ethic, and enjoyment of problem-solving. His intelligence and inherent curiosity help maintain his engagement. For him, discovering landmines is akin to an enjoyable game, with each day presenting new challenges.’
Lily Shallom, of APOPO, puts his success down to the fact that he is ‘hardworking but also friendly and relaxed’
Ronin’s Handler Praises His Dedication
Phanny, Ronin’s primary handler, emphasized Ronin’s value, stating, ‘Ronin’s achievements demonstrate the remarkable capabilities of rats. He is more than just a tool; he is a respected partner and colleague.’
Ronin’s main handler Phanny said: ‘Ronin’s achievements are a testament to the incredible potential of rats. He’s not just an asset; he’s a valued partner and colleague
World Rat Day and International Landmine Awareness Day
The announcement of Ronin’s record-breaking accomplishment coincides with World Rat Day and the International Day for Landmine Awareness, both observed on April 4th.
Continued Service and Well-Deserved Reward
Despite the accolades, Ronin will continue his vital work. Shallom noted, ‘Ronin will be diligently working in the morning, assisting in the detection of numerous landmines and other concealed hazards. Upon returning to base, he will celebrate with a special “Full Cheek Friday” feast – a fitting reward for his dedication and valuable service.’
APOPO’s Hero Rats: Training and Deployment
Ronin and Magawa are among hundreds of rats trained by APOPO at the Sokoine University of Agriculture in Tanzania. These specially trained rodents are subsequently deployed to various regions globally, working alongside expert handlers.
Ronin could have at least two more years of detection work ahead of him
Why Rats are Effective in Mine Detection
Their diminutive size prevents them from triggering explosions, while their high intelligence and acute sense of smell enable them to operate efficiently in challenging environments. APOPO reports that there have been no casualties among their rats during operations.
Cambodia’s Ongoing Landmine Problem
Cambodia remains heavily contaminated with landmines, discarded munitions, and other remnants of war from past conflicts. Although the civil war concluded in 1998, fatalities from landmines and UXOs remain a significant concern. In February, two young children in Cambodia tragically died when a rocket-propelled grenade, believed to be buried since the civil war, detonated near their residence in Siem Reap province.
Mine-Free Cambodia Goal Postponed
Cambodia had set an ambitious goal to be free of mines by 2025, but the government has extended this deadline by five years due to funding limitations and the discovery of new minefields along the Thai border.
Magawa, the previous record holder, found 71 landmines and 38 UXOs during his five-year service
Magawa passed away in 2022, shortly after being awarded a gold medal for heroism for clearing mines