Phnom Penh (FN), September 29 - Heng Ratana, the Director General of the Cambodian Mine Action Center (CMAC) reported that CMAC, in cooperation with the chemical experts of the Ministry of National Defense, will begin the removal of chemical bombs discovered in Svay Rieng early next week.

The bombs are left over from the 1970's. They weigh in at 200 kilograms each.

Svay Rieng governor, Men Vibol, confirmed that the two U.S chemical bombs found in the area are creating a hazardous environment for the citizens, students, and monks living nearby. Some have experienced physical reactions such as breathing difficulty, itching, and skin rashes.

Today, the CMAC and Cambodian Mine Action Authority, as well as mine specialists from the Ministry of National Defense, teamed up to create an impact assessment for the two bombs according to Serei Kosal, first vice-president of CMAA.

"The removal process may begin as early as next week. I would like to call on all citizens and local authorities in the region to follow the instructions of officials, who will run the operation. CMAC and chemical authorities will begin delivering operational equipment on Saturday and Sunday this week.” said the General Director of CMAC.

He added that residents might be evacuated for a while until the operation is completed.
=FRESH NEWS