Violence in Myanmar: Junta Air Strike Kills 15 Civilians in Kachin State
Multiple Attacks on Civilian Targets
The Myanmar military junta has been accused of perpetrating multiple attacks on civilian targets as it struggles to quell resistance to its 2021 coup. The latest attack occurred on Saturday, when a junta air strike killed at least 15 civilians and wounded 10 others at a market in a gold-mining area in northern Kachin state.
Details of the Attack
According to Colonel Naw Bu, a spokesperson from the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), the attack happened around 11:00 am on Saturday. "All those killed were civilians, including gold miners and local shopkeepers," he said. The KIA, which can call on around 7,000 fighters, has been battling the military for decades for autonomy and control of local resources in Kachin state.
Kachin State: A Region Rich in Natural Resources
Kachin state is home to huge jade mines and rare heavy earth elements, most of which are exported to China. The region has seen heavy fighting in the wake of the 2021 putsch, with the junta accusing the KIA of arming and training the newer People’s Defence Forces that have sprung up to battle the junta.
Attack Location
The attack took place in a mining area in Tanaing Township, in the western part of the state. Images from local media showed a large crater in the middle of an area completely flattened and strewn with debris. A resident from the town who declined to be named told AFP that three of the 10 wounded had since died.
Regional Context
The KIA controls swathes of Christian-majority Kachin state, which is home to the world’s largest jade mines. The region has seen heavy fighting in the wake of the 2021 putsch, with the junta accusing the KIA of arming and training the newer People’s Defence Forces that have sprung up to battle the junta.
Other Attacks
Separately, the Arakan Army reported that the junta had dropped 15 bombs during three attacks on a public market in the town of Kyauktaw in Arakan State. It said some civilians had died and others were wounded, but did not specify how many. The Arakan Army is engaged in a fierce fight with the military for control of Rakhine.
Conclusion
The Myanmar military junta’s continued use of force against civilian targets is a pressing concern, with multiple attacks on markets and residential areas reported in recent weeks. The international community must pressure the junta to end its violent campaign and engage in meaningful negotiations with opposition groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the location of the attack?
The attack took place in a mining area in Tanaing Township, in the western part of Kachin state. - How many people were killed in the attack?
At least 15 civilians were killed, with three of the 10 wounded having since died. - What is the context behind the attack?
The attack is part of a larger conflict between the Myanmar military junta and ethnic rebel groups, including the Kachin Independence Army, over control of natural resources and regional autonomy.