Airstrike in Myanmar Leaves 15 Civilians Dead Amid Ongoing Conflict

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An airstrike carried out by Myanmar’s ruling junta has resulted in the deaths of at least 15 civilians and injuries to 10 others in Kachin state. The attack occurred at a marketplace in a gold-mining area around 11:00 am on January 11, 2025, according to Colonel Naw Bu, a spokesperson for the Kachin Independence Army (KIA). The victims included gold miners and local shopkeepers.

This incident highlights the escalated violence in Myanmar as the junta continues its operations against ethnic rebel armies following the military coup in 2021. The KIA, which claims around 7,000 fighters, has long fought for greater autonomy and control over local resources in Kachin state, known for its significant jade mines.

Local media reported severe destruction at the site, with images showing a large crater amidst debris. A town resident mentioned that three of the injured had subsequently succumbed to their wounds.

In a related conflict, the Arakan Army reported that the junta conducted multiple airstrikes on a market in Arakan State on the same day, causing civilian casualties. The junta has not publicly responded to these allegations.

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