Border Crossing Closed Due to Landmine Hazard

Arica, Chile Authorities closed the Arica-Tacna border crossing connecting Chile with Peru due to hazards caused by landmines. Recent torrential downpours in the area washed landmines onto the roadways at the border. The landmines date back to the 1970s when they were placed by Chile when tensions with Peru were high.

Bomb disposal are working to clear the landmines from the roads but continued rain has hampered their progress. Reportedly, at least 4 mines have been found so far with more suspected. Anti-personnel as well as anti-tank mines are suspected. Chile has been clearing mines from its land for the past few years in order to comply with the Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel mines.