[Discussion] Ronin the Hero Rat Sets World Record in Landmine Detection

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Record-breaking Hero Rat: Ronin's Contribution to Landmine Detection

In the battlefields across the globe, landmines continue to present a perilous threat, not only to soldiers involved in active conflict but also to civilians long after the wars have ended. The silent danger of millions of concealed anti-personnel mines has led to innovative safety measures involving a rather unexpected ally: rats. One rat in particular, Ronin, has made history by detecting more landmines than any other rat has managed to, earning a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Meet Ronin: The Guinness World Record Setting Rat

Ronin, based out of Cambodia, has distinguished itself by detecting 109 landmines and 15 items of unexploded ordnance since 2021, as confirmed by APOPO, the charity responsible for training the African giant pouched rat. Ronin's impactful work is recognized in Preah Vihear Province, one of the country's most devastated by landmines, by both the locals and the Guinness Book of World Records. According to the latter, his crucial contribution has made a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals living under the everyday threat of unanticipated landmine explosions.

World Rat Day: Recognizing Ronin’s Achievements in Landmine Detection

On April 4, a date shared by International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action and World Rat Day, the Guinness Book of World Records announced Ronin's illustrious achievement. Serving as one of several specially trained animals, Ronin partakes in global efforts to deactivate and remove landmines, working with a handler in the field between August 2021 and February 2025.

How Ronin and his Fellow Rats Help Save Lives

Trained to detect chemicals found in explosives, rats such as Ronin can cover terrain more quickly than a human using a metal detector. Their accurate olfactory abilities center on identifying chemical compositions, ensuring they do not get diverted by extraneous metal objects. Further complemented by systematic grid training, their petite size allows them to locate and approach landmines without triggering them. Ronin and his peers only require 30 minutes of work each day to make a significant impact.

The Lingering Challenge of Landmines in Cambodia

With an alarming estimated 4 to 6 million buried landmines originating from conflicts dating back to the 1960s, Cambodia remains one of the most heavily mined nations in the world. Despite extensive demining efforts, these concealed threats persist, culminating in injuries and fatalities. Ronin's record surpasses that of the previous record holder, Magawa, by 38 mines. The late Magawa, memorialized with a gold medal from a veterinary charity for his work, had detected 71 landmines and 38 unexploded ordnance.

Landmines: A Persisting Global Issue

Despite international diplomatic efforts, such as the 1997 Ottawa Treaty to curb the proliferation of landmines and ensure their removal, these hidden threats continue to lurk in various countries around the globe. People remain at risk, even in countries where conflicts have ceased, underlining the invaluable contributions of rats like Ronin in the struggle against this deadly, hidden enemy.

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