Inconspicuous washers on roads may turn out to be new remote-controlled mines from the Russian Federation
The use of new remote-detonated anti-personnel mines called “Pryanyk” was recorded in the Nikopol district of the Dnipropetrovsk region. These explosive objects pose a significant threat to the civilian population, as they are extremely difficult to spot on the ground.
The appearance of new mining devices was reported by the head of the Nikopol district state administration, Ivan Bazyluk, calling on residents to be more vigilant when moving through the streets and open areas.
This mine is a small plastic object with a diameter of about 5–6 centimeters, which resembles a washer or a regular lid in shape. Due to its color and specific material, the device body easily blends with soil, dry grass, or household garbage. This camouflage ability makes the “Pryanyk” a cunning trap even for attentive passers-by in broad daylight.
“These explosive objects are difficult to notice, and they pose a mortal danger to people”, — emphasized the head of the Nikopol Regional State Administration Ivan Bazyluk.
According to the head of the administration, the mechanism of action of the mine is very sensitive, so it is triggered by the slightest external influence. A person just needs to accidentally step on the object or touch it with his foot for an explosion to occur. In addition, the design of the device allows the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for mass remote mining of territories, which significantly expands the potential danger zone.
“The mine is triggered by the slightest touch, just step on it. It can also be dropped from drones,” the official noted.
Similar tactics of remote mining of residential areas are observed in other front-line regions. Previously, the Kherson Regional State Administration reported daily cases of detection of “Petal” mines on the streets of Kherson.
Such devices are also difficult to identify among the grass or on asphalt, which forces local authorities to constantly remind citizens of the rules of safe behavior and a categorical ban on approaching any unknown objects.
The constant improvement of mining methods and the use of low-visibility ammunition requires residents of the area to be as focused as possible. If suspicious plastic disks or objects similar to “Pryanyk” are discovered, law enforcement agencies or units of the State Emergency Service must be immediately notified. Timely informing specialists is the only way to avoid tragic consequences and clear the area of the hidden threat.
