This Hero Rat Just Set a New Guinness World Record!

Landmines have long posed a significant threat in post-conflict regions, endangering lives and hindering development. In Cambodia, a country heavily affected by these hidden dangers, an unconventional hero has emerged: Ronin, an African giant pouched rat.

Trained by the Belgian non-profit organization APOPO, Ronin has achieved a remarkable milestone by detecting 109 landmines and 15 other unexploded ordnance (UXO) since his deployment in August 2021, earning him a Guinness World Record.

The Persistent Threat of Landmines in Cambodia

Cambodia’s landscape is marred by millions of landmines and UXOs, remnants of conflicts spanning from the 1960s to the 1990s. These hidden explosives have caused over 64,000 casualties since 1979, with thousands more injured or maimed. The pervasive presence of these devices continues to instill fear and impede socioeconomic progress, particularly in rural communities.

APOPO’s Innovative Approach to Demining

APOPO has pioneered the training of African giant pouched rats, affectionately known as HeroRATs, to detect landmines. These rats are trained to identify the scent of explosives, allowing them to locate landmines with remarkable efficiency. Their lightweight nature enables them to traverse minefields without triggering the explosives, making them invaluable assets in demining operations.

Ronin’s Exceptional Contributions

Ronin, born on August 13, 2019, in Morogoro, Tanzania, exemplifies the success of APOPO’s training program. Since his deployment to Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province, Ronin has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication. His handler, Phanny, regards him not just as an asset but as a valued partner and colleague.

Ronin’s achievements have surpassed those of his predecessor, Magawa, who previously held the record with 71 landmines and 38 UXOs detected over a five-year career. Magawa’s contributions were recognized with a gold medal from the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) in 2020, highlighting the significant impact of these HeroRATs in humanitarian demining efforts.

The Impact of HeroRATs on Demining Efforts

The use of HeroRATs like Ronin has revolutionized demining operations. These rats can search an area the size of a tennis court in approximately 20 minutes—a task that could take a human deminer with a metal detector between one and four days. This efficiency not only accelerates the clearance of hazardous areas but also reduces costs and enhances safety for demining personnel.

Challenges and the Path Forward

Despite the remarkable contributions of HeroRATs, Cambodia’s goal of becoming mine-free by 2025 faces challenges, including funding constraints and the discovery of new minefields along the Thai border. The government has extended the deadline by five years, underscoring the need for sustained international support and innovative solutions in demining efforts.

Conclusion

Ronin’s record-breaking achievements underscore the critical role that innovative approaches and dedicated individuals—and animals—play in addressing global challenges. His work not only contributes to making Cambodian communities safer but also serves as a testament to the potential of unconventional solutions in humanitarian efforts. As demining initiatives continue, the contributions of HeroRATs like Ronin offer hope for a future free from the threat of landmines.

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