A landmine-detecting rat named Ronin has gained global attention after setting a new record in Cambodia, one of the world’s most heavily mined countries.
Ronin Becomes a Record Breaker
According to the Guinness World Records, Ronin became the most successful Mine Detection Rat (MDR) after detecting 109 landmines and 15 unexploded artillery shells since 2021. He broke the previous record held by Magawa, who had found 71 landmines and received a gold medal in 2020.
Ronin works with Apopo, a Belgian non-profit that has trained rats for demining work for decades. The organization described its trained rodents as “HeroRATS.”
How Ronin Detects Landmines
Apopo shared that Ronin is one of 104 rats trained to detect explosive chemicals in landmines and other weapons. He follows a grid pattern and signals his handler by scratching the ground when he senses danger.
Because of their small size, these rats don’t trigger the mines. Moreover, Apopo explained that the rats can cover an area as large as a tennis court in just 30 minutes. In comparison, human workers using metal detectors would need around four days to scan the same space.
Ronin Earns Praise from Trainers
Ronin’s handlers described him as a hardworking and relaxed rodent who enjoys solving problems. Lily Shalom, a spokesperson for Apopo, explained that Ronin’s intelligence and curiosity help him stay focused. She added that landmine detection feels like a fun game for him and that every day brings new challenges.
Ronin’s handler, Phanny, also praised the rat. He said Ronin was not just a useful worker but also a valued team member and partner. Apopo emphasized that Ronin’s world record highlighted the vital role of HeroRATS in humanitarian demining efforts.
Landmines Still Haunt Cambodia
Cambodia still suffers from the aftermath of decades of war. Despite the end of the civil war in 1998, the country remains filled with landmines and unexploded weapons. According to the Landmine Monitor 2024 report, there could still be up to six million landmines buried across the country.
Since 1979, landmines and explosive remnants have caused around 20,000 deaths and 45,000 injuries. In a tragic incident earlier this year, two toddlers died in Siem Reap province when an old rocket-propelled grenade exploded near their homes.
Cambodia Shifts Mine-Free Goal to 2030
Cambodia had aimed to become mine-free by 2025, but officials have now delayed the goal to 2030. They cited funding problems and the discovery of new minefields near the Thai border.
Despite these challenges, Apopo’s CEO Christine Cox expressed hope. She stated that when Apopo launched its mission, people believed it would take 500 years to clear the world of landmines. Now, 25 years later, she believed global support and cooperation could help achieve that goal within this generation.
