Myanmar Military Air Strikes Claim Lives of 11 Civilians in Shan State
On Friday, a spokesperson from an ethnic minority armed group reported that air strikes conducted by Myanmar’s military in northern Shan State resulted in the deaths of 11 civilians and injuries to an additional 11 individuals. The group, known as the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), claims to be engaged in conflict against the military junta which seized power in February 2021. Lway Yay Oo, from the TNLA, detailed to the Agence France-Presse (AFP) that the assaults targeted two locations within Namhkam town at approximately 1:00 AM local time. Among those confirmed deceased were five men, four women, and two children. The strikes also caused damage to a local political party’s office.
Situated approximately five kilometers from the China-Myanmar border, Namhkam has seen previous disputes resulting in TNLA fighters asserting control following extended confrontations last year. Videos shared on social media depicted the devastation, revealing individuals sifting through debris and a young person being transported due to apparent injuries. Further reports from local residents noted that at least 13 individuals had received medical treatment for their injuries in nearby hospitals. One anonymous source mentioned impending funeral arrangements for the victims, underscoring the somber atmosphere that prevailed in the town.
The TNLA has expressed concerns regarding the potential for further air strikes, cautioning residents and offering them an opportunity to evacuate for safety. Despite inquiries, AFP was unable to obtain comments from military officials regarding the incident. The Myanmar military has faced significant territorial losses to an assembly of armed ethnic minority groups and the so-called “People’s Defence Forces” near the border with China, particularly in northern Shan State. In a notable shift, this week, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing conveyed a warning to civilians residing in areas controlled by ethnic armed groups, indicating the possibility of imminent military counterattacks. The junta further classified the TNLA as a “terrorist” organization, positioning legal measures against those associated with the group as well as other ethnic factions like the Arakan Army (AA) and Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA).
Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar has descended into an ongoing crisis, resulting in over 2.7 million individuals being displaced. The United Nations has highlighted the dire humanitarian situation that continues to exacerbate amidst the enduring conflict.
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