Handmines were used on the planet Skaro during the war that lasted a thousand years. They appeared in groups, and would take hold of, and pull individuals underground.
They were drawn to sound and movement. If a person was still but making noise they would rise up from the ground to search for the target.
As a child, Davros found himself surrounded by handmines. Kanzo tried to help him, reminding him to stand still before being pulled underground. (TV: The Magician's Apprentice)