BEIRUT: A blast from a landmine, believed to have been planted by the Islamic State group, killed at least 13 civilians foraging for truffles in the Syrian desert, a war monitor said as reported by AFP.
The Syria Observatory for Human Rights said that the explosion occurred while the civilians, including women, were searching for truffles in the desert located in Raqa province. Truffle hunting is a popular activity in the region, known for producing some of the world’s best quality truffles that fetch high prices in the market.
Despite authorities’ warnings about the dangers associated with foraging in areas where landmines may be present, people continue to take the risk, especially during the truffle season, which typically lasts from February to April. The allure of the delicacies found in the vast expanse of the Syrian desert, or Badia, often outweighs the potential risks involved.
