A major explosion occurred in an area controlled by rebel groups in Myanmar’s Shan State, resulting in the death of 55 people. According to the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), the incident was caused by the accidental detonation of explosives used for mining and rock breaking. Delays in implementing safety measures have often led to such fatal accidents in mines operated by the rebels.
The large explosion in the rebel-controlled region of Myanmar killed 55 individuals and injured dozens more. The incident took place in Namkham Township of Shan State, where 25 women and 30 men lost their lives. The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), which controls the area and is engaged in fighting the military, stated that the explosion of explosive materials occurred accidentally, leading to the tragedy.
The TNLA’s statement noted that this “unknown explosion” happened at 12 noon on Sunday. “Many villagers died and were wounded in the explosion, and homes suffered damage,” the TNLA reported. Many initially mistook the blast for an airstrike, according to posts on social media. One individual wrote, “Fortunately, my phone saved my life. I was sitting in my room eating noodles and checking my phone. If I had been in the kitchen, I might not have survived.”
The individual reported sustaining minor injuries to the leg and that their house was destroyed. “People were crying and calling out for their parents; it felt like the world ended,” they shared. They questioned why such explosives were allowed to detonate so close to residential areas. The person also commented that families of the deceased would not be satisfied until authorities provide full details. According to AFP, many of the country’s rebel groups rely heavily on important mineral mines to fund their operations. Security lapses have caused structural collapses and similar accidents in these mining areas.
