Explosion at explosives depot in Shan State kills dozens
At least 46 people were killed and more than 70 wounded in Kaung Tat village, with the rebel group launching an investigation into the cause.
A major explosion at an explosives depot in the village of Kaung Tat, Shan State, has resulted in significant casualties and widespread destruction. The blast occurred at approximately 12:30pm local time on Sunday in an area controlled by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), near the border with China.
Local media reports indicate a divergent death toll, reflecting the chaotic nature of the immediate aftermath. The Irrawaddy reported that at least 46 people were killed, including six children, with more than 70 others wounded. Conversely, a rescue worker cited by the Shwe Phee Myay news agency stated that the death toll had reached 55. The exact number of fatalities remains unconfirmed due to limited immediate access to the site.
Visual evidence shared on social media platforms depicted a large plume of smoke rising from the site, followed by secondary explosions. Several buildings in the vicinity were reported as completely destroyed, while others sustained damage. Rescue operations were underway as local authorities and community members responded to the incident.
The TNLA confirmed the explosion via Facebook, stating that the stored explosives were intended for use in mining operations within the ruby-rich region. The group acknowledged the incident resulted in numerous casualties among local residents but did not provide a precise figure. The presence of such materials is consistent with the area’s history of ruby mining, which has long been a focal point of economic activity and conflict in Shan State.
The blast took place in territory held by the TNLA, the armed wing of the Palaung Self Liberation Front and a key component of the Three Brotherhood Alliance. This alliance has been engaged in an armed rebellion against Myanmar’s military government, which has ruled since the 2021 coup. The TNLA has historically fought for greater autonomy from the central government.
In its statement, the TNLA announced that an investigation into the cause of the blast was underway. The group pledged that those responsible for the incident would be held accountable, though it did not specify whether the explosion was accidental or deliberate. The cause remains undetermined as authorities continue to assess the scene.
