A junta airstrike on a residential area in Laukkai killed two civilians early Tuesday morning, marking a deadly incident in the conflict-ridden northern Shan State. The attack targeted the town, which is controlled by the Myanmar National Democratic Army (MNDAA).
According to a statement from the ethnic Kokang armed group, the airstrike occurred shortly after midnight, killing a 34-year-old woman and a 37-year-old man. The attack also left many others injured.
The MNDAA’s statement detailed that a junta warplane dropped two bombs on Laukkai’s Ward 2, an area densely populated with homes and hotels. One bomb exploded in front of a hotel, while the other detonated nearby, causing significant destruction to the surrounding area.
In the immediate aftermath, footage posted online by the MNDAA showed their troops using flashlights to search through the rubble for survivors. The video depicted scenes of chaos, with several injured individuals, some trapped under the wreckage, being pulled to safety. The MNDAA reported that among the injured was a 30-year-old man who sustained serious wounds.
This airstrike adds to the growing list of violent incidents in northern Shan State. The region has been a hotspot of military activity, with frequent clashes and attacks causing significant disruption and loss of life.
Humanitarian groups and residents have expressed deep concern over the continued violence and its impact on civilians. The recent airstrike in Laukkai highlights the ongoing danger faced by those living in conflict zones, where military operations often result in civilian casualties and widespread destruction.
As the conflict continues, calls for peace and protection of civilians are growing louder, with many urging international intervention to prevent further loss of life and to support those affected by the violence. The situation in Laukkai remains tense, as residents brace for potential further attacks.