In Myanmar's Kachin State, a tragic incident occurred as an artillery strike targeted a camp for internally displaced people. Reports from local media, activists, and sources in the area, suggest that the casualties include women, children, and the elderly. Disturbing images depicting the aftermath were also circulated.
This devastating event unfolded near midnight on Monday, just a few kilometres from a military camp under the control of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), which is in opposition to Myanmar's ruling military. At present, confirmation from the KIA remains pending. The National Unity Government (NUG), an anti-junta entity in Myanmar, shared the reports and images on social media but has yet to respond to requests for confirmation.
Regrettably, a local activist, Khon Ja, from the Kachin Peace Network Civil society group, confirmed 29 casualties after visiting the local hospital. She described the bomb's impact as devastating, leading to the complete destruction of the village. Furthermore, 59 individuals were reported injured.
Laiza, situated in northern Myanmar, serves as the capital for the KIA, a prominent ethnic group engaged in a prolonged struggle against the military. This town, near the Chinese border, houses many displaced civilians in and around its vicinity.
Myanmar has been embroiled in turmoil since the military's seizure of power in a coup in February 2021, prompting widespread resistance against its authority. The violence has affected a significant portion of the population, with the military accused of indiscriminate use of air raids, artillery shelling, and arson, resulting in the displacement of hundreds of thousands.
Tragically, in October of the preceding year, military air raids targeted a festival organized by the KIA in Kachin, claiming the lives of at least 60 individuals. Among the casualties were Kachin officers, soldiers, musicians, jade-mining entrepreneurs, and other civilians.
The recent incident in Myanmar's Kachin State is a tragic reminder of the suffering caused by conflict. The loss of many lives, including women, children, and the elderly, is deeply saddening. It is important for the global community to come together support those affected, and work towards a peaceful future.
Ⓒ Copyright 2023. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
