Dozens killed in explosion at northeast Myanmar military depot

MYANMAR EXPLOSION CLAIMS DEATHS AND INJURIES

At least 46 people have been reported killed in an explosion in a rebel-held area in northeast Myanmar, according to local media reports. The blast occurred on Sunday at an explosives depot in the village of Kaung Tat in Shan State.

Local news website The Irrawaddy has reported that at least 46 people were killed and more than 70 wounded due to the blast. A rescue worker from the Shwe Phee Myay news agency stated that 55 people were killed. Several houses were damaged in the explosion, which took place at around 12:30pm local time.

Video footage shared on social media showed an enormous plume of smoke and secondary explosions. Images also showed several buildings completely destroyed. The area is controlled by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), a rebel group that has been fighting for greater autonomy from central government since the 1990s.

The TNLA confirmed the explosion in a Facebook statement, stating that the stored explosives were used in mining operations. The area is known for its ruby-rich mines. The group stated that an investigation into the cause of the blast was underway and those responsible would be held accountable.

Rescue operations are ongoing at the scene.

Source: Al Jazeera