Local officials and the Arakan Army have reported at least 49 people have died and 58 injured in the Myanmar air strike near a Rakhine State (RYO) busy market. The attack took place in Kyauktaw township, reportedly where vendors were selling goods, consumers were shopping and the locals were walking around.
The incident has added to concerns regarding civilian safety amid Myanmar’s extended conflict that has thrown a spanner in the works for communities, livelihoods and basic services across the country.
Airstrike Hits Busy Market in Kyauktaw
The Arakan Army, which also claimed to have witnessed the attacks, said the military fighter jets had released two bombs near a wholesale market around midday. The region, located 340 kilometres to the west of Mandalay, is under the rule of the Arakan Army, an ethnic opposition group that is separate from the Myanmar military.
The market plays a significant role as a trade hub for neighbouring communities as vendors, shoppers and traders from various parts of Rakhine State come to the market. Many amongst a large number of civilians were reportedly in attendance at the time of the attack.
The air strike resulted in widespread destruction. Fires were reported in nearby buildings, vehicles were damaged, and some buildings suffered structural damage to structures which hampered rescue operations.
Death Toll and Injuries Raise Concerns
A total of 49 people are believed to have died and 58 injured. At least 22 are in critical condition among those hurt, suggesting the death toll may rise.
The affected communities are feeling the impact of the bombing and rescue attempts and the local government has been responding to the incident. One of the deadliest recent airstrikes in Rakhine state killed several people.
Arakan Army Denounces Attack
The Arakan Army has condemned the strike and warned of retaliation against civilians. The group has long battled Myanmar’s military over greater autonomy for Rakhine’s ethnic population and is now engaged in ongoing battles with the government.
The military had not officially commented on the attack on Kyauktaw at the time of this report. The military has another policy of ensuring targeted air operations are directed at legitimate military positions and that resistance groups are involved in ‘terrorist activities.
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Wider Conflict Deepens Humanitarian Concerns
Since take-over in February 2021, Myanmar has been characterized by widespread conflict, where resistance groups and ethnic armed organisations (EAOs) are engaged in conflict in various regions.
Rakhine State has experienced instances of violence, displacement and trade route disruption on a number of occasions. Concerns about the humanitarian situation have risen since previous attacks against civilian infrastructure exceeded a deadly airstrike on a hospital in neighbouring Mrauk-U township.
The recent event highlights people’s vulnerabilities in conflict-affected communities. Additional developments will be subject to casualty reports, a rescue mission and potentially a response from Myanmar’s military command.
FAQs
How many were killed in airstrikes in Myanmar?
A minimum of 49 were reportedly killed by the airstrike in Kyauktaw township, near a market area.
Where was the airstrike?
The attack took place in Kyauktaw township in the western part of Myanmar’s Rakhine State, close to a wholesale market in the region.
How has the Arakan Army responded?
The Arakan Army condemned the attack and vowed to take a fierce retaliative move against the culprits.
