Mine detector 42

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The Wehrmacht used the code name Minensuchgerät 42 to designate Jews and captured partisans who were forced to clear minefields as part of the “Triangle” and “Viereck” operations . They were tied to long neck ropes and then driven over minefields with rollers and harrows . The procedure amounted to a cruel murder of prisoners.

"Since mining is to be expected, a sufficient number of mine detection equipment 42 (Jews or captured gang members with harrows and rollers) must be provided. The units have to equip themselves with ropes in order to provide the Jews or gang members with long neck ropes. [...] "

- Operation order of the commander of the rear army area 532 for the companies "Dreieck" and "Viereck" from 23 September 1942

"The provision of numerous 'mine detection devices' [...] has proven itself and saved the troops a lot of blood."

- Combat report

background

In 1942, Army Group Center had increasing problems with partisans. On September 9, 1942, the order was therefore issued for the "Triangle and Viereck operations", in the framework of which large areas of land were devastated and the residents were deported . A separate order was issued for Jews and captured freedom fighters to use them as "mine detector 42".

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