The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Reports from local media on Sunday revealed that an air strike on a village in northwestern Myanmar resulted in the death of at least 15 individuals, including children. The country has been grappling with escalating conflict, with the junta engaged in fierce battles against opponents in the northern and eastern regions.
The airstrike occurred in Khampat Township, Tamu district, at approximately 10:15 am (0415 GMT). According to various local media outlets, the death toll stands at 15 people, including children, with an additional 20 individuals reported as wounded.
However, two anonymous witnesses, a man and a woman concerned for their safety, informed AFP that the actual toll might be higher. The man claimed that 19 people, including eight children, lost their lives, recounting the presence of a junta jet fighter during the attack.
The witnesses stated that the initial bombs targeted two churches in the village, with a second attack taking place as people attempted to flee the buildings. Most casualties occurred outside the church area as people sought to escape, particularly impacting women and children due to the dense crowds.
The man explained that a total of six bombs were dropped, with the intended targets being the two churches. However, some bombs hit outside the designated areas, striking houses and landing near the community’s school.
Contrary to the reports, state media asserted late Sunday that the news of the attack was “fake news,” with MRTV claiming no aircraft were operating in the area at the time.
The village is reportedly under the control of a People’s Defence Force (PDF) group, one of several groups that have emerged to resist the junta. The military has labeled these groups as “terrorists.”
During the incident, a scheduled graduation ceremony for new recruits was relocated to a nearby jungle. The witness remarked that while they could understand a bombing targeting their graduation area, the junta bombed the wrong place, hitting public churches and areas.
According to the witnesses, 30 people were wounded, and the woman cautioned that the casualty count might rise, with some individuals sustaining serious injuries and receiving treatment at a clinic. She did not provide further details.
