At least 24 individuals lost their lives during demonstrations against Myanmar’s military regime when a paraglider dropped two explosives into the assembled crowd of around 100 people in Chaung U township. The gathering was to commemorate Thadingyut, marking the conclusion of Buddhist Lent.
Since the military junta took control in 2021, a civil war has erupted in Myanmar. Despite losing control of over half the nation, the army is reclaiming territory through intense airstrikes. The region targeted by the recent bombing is a crucial battleground in clashes with armed resistance factions, including the People’s Defence Force (PDF), formed by volunteer militias post-coup to govern areas under their influence.
Reports confirm that despite attempts to disperse the protests, the bomb attack was swift, occurring within a seven-minute timeframe. An eyewitness, who also sustained injuries in the explosion, recounted the tragic scene of multiple fatalities, with challenges in identifying the victims post-attack.
Witnesses described the aftermath as horrific, with children suffering severe injuries. Amnesty International raised concerns about the military’s use of paramotors for civilian assaults, labeling it a troubling development necessitating urgent protection for Myanmar’s populace.
International sanctions have limited Myanmar’s access to military equipment, but countries like China and Russia continue to supply advanced weaponry, bolstering the junta’s combat capabilities. The peaceful candlelight vigil staged on Monday sought to protest military conscription, the forthcoming election, and the release of political detainees, including ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi, detained following the coup.
