An air strike conducted by the Myanmar military on the city of Mogok has resulted in a grim toll, with at least 21 fatalities and extensive damage to homes and buildings. The attack, which targeted the Shwegu ward of Mogok Township, underscores the escalating violence and instability that have gripped the nation since the military seized power in February 2021.
The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) reported that the air strike occurred approximately 115 kilometers northeast of Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. Lwe Yar Oo, a spokesperson for the TNLA, confirmed the incident and noted that the air raid specifically targeted a Buddhist monastery.
Among those killed were a pregnant woman, members of armed groups, and local residents. The TNLA, an influential ethnic militia, has been actively engaged in clashes with the military in the region near the Chinese border. The recent attack resulted in a significant number of civilian casualties.
The TNLA’s statement detailed that the air strike on the Buddhist monastery in Shwegu ward claimed the lives of 16 women. The attack also caused extensive damage to 15 residential homes. Independent sources suggest that the actual death toll may be even higher, with some estimates reaching approximately 30 fatalities. However, obtaining precise figures has been challenging due to the ongoing conflict and restrictions on information.
The Myanmar military has not issued a public statement concerning the air strike. The military has consistently maintained that it only targets legitimate military objectives and accuses resistance forces of engaging in terrorist activities.
Since the military’s coup in February 2021, Myanmar has been embroiled in a period of turmoil and armed conflict. The military has intensified its air strikes against pro-democracy People’s Defence Force and ethnic militias, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
In the first two weeks of August, air strikes in areas controlled by the TNLA resulted in the deaths of 17 individuals, including two Buddhist monks, and injured 20 others. Additionally, recent air strikes near Sagaing in central Myanmar claimed the lives of approximately 16 people, primarily truck drivers. The military’s control is estimated to be less than half of the country, and it plans to hold elections later this year.
Critics argue that these elections are unlikely to be democratic due to the absence of free media and the detention of numerous leaders from Suu Kyi’s party. Many opposition groups have expressed their intention to disrupt these elections.