1 day ago
6
In a country still burdened by the long-lasting effects of war, a surprising hero has emerged to make history and save lives. His name is Ronin, and he is a rat unlike any other. At just five years old, Ronin has achieved a world record for the most landmines detected by a single rat, astonishing both scientists and humanitarian workers alike. His story is not only inspiring but also highlights the vital role animals can play in dangerous demining missions across Cambodia, one of the most landmine-affected countries on Earth.
Image Credit: TikTokRonin is not your typical rodent. For starters, he is impressively large, measuring over two feet long from nose to tail, which is about the size of an average house cat. But it is not his size that makes him special. It is his intelligence, dedication, and highly trained instincts that have set him apart.
Trained by a team of experts to detect the scent of explosives buried underground, Ronin has successfully uncovered an astounding total of 109 landmines. In addition to that, he has also located 15 other unexploded ordnance devices. These numbers are not just statistics. They represent lives saved, injuries prevented, and communities made safer.
The previous world record was held by another detection rat who found 71 landmines. Ronin’s new record not only surpasses that milestone but also highlights the extraordinary capabilities of these often misunderstood animals.
Ronin’s journey has been guided by his devoted handler, Phanny, who has worked closely with him every step of the way. Their bond is built on trust, training, and a shared mission to save lives.
“Ronin’s achievements are a testament to the incredible potential of rats,” says Phanny. “He is a reminder that heroism can come from the most unexpected places.”
Phanny has watched Ronin grow from a curious trainee to a seasoned expert in explosive detection. Together, they have combed through some of Cambodia’s most dangerous terrain, always working carefully and deliberately to locate hidden threats that have been buried for decades.
Image Credit: InstagramCambodia is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world. This is due in large part to the bombings conducted by the United States during the Vietnam War era and the years of internal conflict that followed. Even today, millions of landmines and unexploded bombs remain hidden beneath the surface.
Since 1979, these deadly remnants of war have caused more than 65,000 fatalities in Cambodia. Thousands more have suffered life-changing injuries. Entire villages live in fear, unable to farm their land or allow their children to play freely.
That is why Ronin’s work is so critical. Each explosive he detects is one less threat to human life. Each safe patch of land he clears brings hope to families who have lived in uncertainty for generations.
Ronin is part of a larger initiative that trains African giant pouched rats for humanitarian purposes. These animals are especially suited for landmine detection because they are light enough not to trigger the explosives and have an excellent sense of smell.
Organizations across the globe are investing in these programs, recognizing that rats like Ronin are not just effective, they are also fast and affordable to train. In a world where millions of landmines remain active, these animals are becoming a vital part of global demining efforts.
Image Credit: InstagramSinger Hurt Dog on Camera After Being Released from Prison
Shortly after being released, he became overcome by rage and frustration and began violently wailing on his poor, trembling, frightened dog. It's clear that this man's violent tendencies didn't decrease after serving his time.
Ronin’s record-breaking accomplishment is more than a number. It is a powerful story of how innovation, compassion, and unlikely allies can come together to make the world a safer place.
As Ronin continues his work, he inspires people around the globe to look beyond appearances and believe in the potential of every living creature. His legacy will not only be remembered in numbers but in the lives that he has helped protect.
English (US) · 