"Felt Like the End of the World": At Least 46 Killed in Myanmar Village Explosion

Tragedy in Rebel-Held Kaungtup Village

Explosion of Mining Materials Damages 100 Homes

"Frequent Accidents at Rebel Precious Metal Mining Sites"

On May 31 (local time), a massive explosion in a village controlled by Myanmar rebels killed at least 46 people, including children, and left more than 70 injured.

On the 31st of last month (local time), rescue workers and residents are conducting search operations at the site of an explosion accident in Kaungtup Village, Namkam Township, Shan State, Myanmar. Photo by AP News Agency

According to reports from the Associated Press and the BBC, the explosion occurred in a building in Kaungtup Village, Namkam Township, Shan State, Myanmar, near the Chinese border. The blast damaged approximately 100 nearby homes.

Rescue workers at the scene told the Associated Press that they recovered 46 bodies, including six children. The number of injured is estimated at around 74, and the death toll is expected to rise. The BBC reported that the number of fatalities could be at least 55.

The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), an ethnic armed group that controls the area, confirmed deaths had occurred but did not disclose a specific number.

According to the BBC, a local resident wrote on social media that many people initially thought an airstrike had taken place. The resident said, "People were crying out, searching for their parents," and, "It felt like the end of the world."

The TNLA explained that the explosion was an accident involving substances stored for mining operations. In a statement, the group said, "Jelignite stored for mining and quarrying purposes detonated." Jelignite is widely used for blasting in mines, but it is known to be hazardous as it becomes unstable and prone to detonation from minor shocks if stored improperly or over time.

The TNLA stated that it is investigating the explosion and that anyone found responsible will be held accountable. The group added that it will provide relief, medical support, and rehabilitation measures for affected families as quickly as possible.

According to France's AFP news agency, many Myanmar rebel groups rely on precious metal mining for funding their activities. Due to lax safety management, mine collapses and various accidents are believed to occur frequently.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.