"Second Army" They discovered two additional TM-46 mines near the spot where a volunteer's backhoe triggered a mine. Although these mines are old, they are still functional and capable of causing harm.
On 25 Oct 2026 GMT+7, the Second Army disclosed further inspection results regarding a volunteer group's backhoe incident involving a mine during tactical route construction in Bua Chet District, Surin Province. The incident injured the backhoe operator and damaged the vehicle.
The inspection found two more TM-46 anti-vehicle mines near the incident site. Despite their aged condition, they remain operational and dangerous. However, the origin, responsible party, and timing of the mine placement remain undetermined.
After the incident, explosives and mine experts from the National Mine Action Center (TMAC), along with security personnel, examined the site to collect evidence, identify the type of mines, and assess nearby risks. They found a blast crater about 2.5 meters in diameter and 0.75 meters deep, scattered with fragments of anti-vehicle mine casings.
Additionally, within a 5-meter radius around the site, officials discovered two more TM-46 anti-vehicle mines. Although old, these mines are still functional and pose danger. The information from this discovery will guide security measures, planning for area inspections, and future mine clearance operations.
The Second Army emphasized that current evidence is insufficient to determine the mines' origin, those responsible for laying them, or the timing. Further investigation and forensic analysis according to relevant procedures are necessary to clarify the facts.