At least 24 people were killed and 47 were injured when Myanmar’s military bombed a crowd of protesters with two bombs. The bombings occurred on Monday night in Chaung U township in central Myanmar. Approximately 100 individuals had gathered for a national celebration when the military used a paraglider to drop the bombs. Since the army overran the nation by force in 2021, thousands have lost their lives, and millions have been forced to flee their homes. The conflict between the people and the army continues.
The country has been in civil war since the military coup three years ago. The army has been conducting more aerial attacks recently and is growing stronger once again. They have new Chinese weapons and are being assisted by Russia. China also halted weapons for rebel forces close to the border, which has allowed the army to gain the upper hand.
Army Uses Flying Machines to Bomb Festival
The Monday attack was one of several hundred such air attacks this year by Myanmar’s military. The army has been employing new drones purchased from China and receiving technical assistance from Russia. The new weapons have assisted them in reversing the war; previously, the army was losing against the resistance fighters.
The bombing occurred in the Sagaing region, where citizens gathered to mark Thadingyut, a full moon celebration. They were organising a candlelight procession to rally against compulsory military service and an election that was going to be a sham. The Sagaing region has been a central combat area. Most sections of the region are under the control of local volunteer guerrilla fighters who are against the military.
Bodies Difficult to Identify After Explosion
These homegrown volunteer warriors are referred to as the People’s Defence Force. They also operate the local administration in their territories. A local PDF explained that they received word that an aerial attack could occur at Monday’s meeting. They attempted to send individuals home early, but the flying bombs arrived sooner than anticipated. It all occurred within seven minutes, and some people died instantly.
Local residents said that it was extremely difficult to identify the bodies after the bombing. Children were torn to pieces, said a woman who organised the event. She interviewed with the AFP news agency following visits to the funerals on Tuesday. She said they were still discovering body parts. The attack occurred while there should have been a time of peace during a religious festival.
World Groups Call for Protection of Civilians
Amnesty International stated on Tuesday that the junta’s use of flying bombs to target communities is extremely concerning. The junta prefers using these paramotors since it lacks sufficient regular planes and helicopters. Countries across the globe imposed sanctions on Myanmar, making it difficult for its leaders to acquire military equipment. But they have become stronger once more with new technology from China and Russia.
Joe Freeman is an Amnesty International employee who researches Myanmar. He explained that the attack should prompt immediate action to protect ordinary people. He appealed to Asean, the Association of South East Asian Nations, convening this month, to pressure the junta. Myanmar plans to conduct an election in December, but opponents of the military claim the election will not be fair or truthful. Most of the opposition parties have been outlawed, and voting will likely only occur in areas under military control.
News At Glance
- Myanmar army bombs civilians with flying machine during Buddhist festival, killing 24 and injuring 47
- Bombing occurred during a peaceful demonstration against forced military conscription and sham elections
- World groups call for immediate safeguards for ordinary people as junta launches more paraglider attacks
- The attack occurred in the Sagaing region during the Thadingyut full moon celebration
- China and Russia are assisting the Myanmar army with new weapons and technology
FAQs
- How many fatalities occurred in the Myanmar festival attack?
At least 24 people were killed and 47 were injured when the army shelled the crowd.
- What type of festival was attacked in Myanmar
Individuals had come to commemorate Thadingyut, a full moon Buddhist festival, with a candlelight march and calm protest.
- Why did the Myanmar military attack the celebration?
The rally was a calm protest against forced conscription and the coming sham elections.
- What weapons were used by the military to attack the celebration?
The army used aerial devices known as motorised paragliders to release two bombs into the crowd from the air.
- Which nations are assisting Myanmar’s army?
China is providing Myanmar’s military with new drones, and Russia is providing technical assistance to the military.
Stay updated with the latest news, innovations, and economic insights at Inspirepreneur Magazine.
