Deadly Explosion Kills at Least 55 in Rebel-Held Myanmar Village

Myanmar: A powerful blast ripped through Kaung Tat village on Sunday, killing at least 55 people and injuring dozens more, according to local sources, rescue workers, and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).

The explosion occurred around noon local time in the TNLA-controlled area near the Chinese border. Officials from the ethnic armed group attributed it to the accidental detonation of gelignite explosives stored for mining and stone-quarrying operations.

Reports indicate that 25 women and 30 men were among the dead, with some accounts mentioning children among the victims. More than 60 people were wounded, and over 100 homes were damaged or destroyed as the blast leveled nearby structures. Rescue teams continue to search through rubble for survivors and trapped individuals.

The TNLA, which controls the region, said its economic department had stored the explosives and is now providing medical care, relief supplies, and support for resettlement while investigating the incident.

This tragedy unfolds amid Myanmar’s ongoing civil war, in a resource-rich border area where mining activities are common. China has expressed concern over the incident due to its proximity to the shared border.

Casualty figures may rise as recovery efforts continue in the remote area.