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3w ago

Cambodian Rat Ronin Sets Guinness World Record for Landmine Detection

Ronin, a giant African pouched rat, has detected 109 landmines and 15 unexploded ordnances, highlighting the ongoing demining challenges in Cambodia.

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A landmine-hunting rat in Cambodia has set a new world record by sniffing out more than 100 mines and pieces of unexploded ordnance, a charity said Friday
'He's not just an asset, he's a valued partner and colleague,' Phanny, Ronin's handler, said

Overview

  • Ronin, deployed by the Belgian charity APOPO in Cambodia since 2021, is now the most successful Mine Detection Rat in history.
  • He has detected 109 landmines and 15 unexploded ordnances, surpassing the previous record held by Magawa, another HeroRat.
  • His achievements emphasize the critical role of HeroRats in addressing Cambodia's landmine crisis, a legacy of decades of war.
  • Cambodia's goal to be mine-free by 2025 has been delayed to 2030 due to funding shortages and the discovery of new minefields.
  • Recent civilian casualties, including the deaths of two toddlers in February 2025, underscore the urgency of demining efforts in the country.