Dozens killed in explosion at northeastern Myanmar explosives depot

Myanmar Explosion Leaves Multiple Dead and Injured

At least 46 people have been reported killed in an explosion in Myanmar’s northeastern Shan State, according to local media reports. The incident occurred on Sunday at a depot housing explosives in the village of Kaung Tat.

The exact death toll is not immediately clear, but local news website The Irrawaddy has confirmed that six children were among those killed. More than 70 people were also wounded in the blast, which took place around 12:30pm local time (05:50 GMT).

Rescue operations are ongoing, with multiple sources reporting varying death tolls. A rescue worker told the Shwe Phee Myay news agency that at least 55 people had been killed.

Footage shared on social media shows an enormous plume of smoke rising from the area, followed by secondary explosions. Several buildings were also damaged in the blast.

The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), a rebel group operating in the area, has confirmed the explosion and stated that it was caused by the use of stored explosive material for mining operations. The TNLA said an investigation into the cause of the blast is underway and that those responsible will be held accountable.

The area is known for its ruby-rich mines, and the incident highlights the risks associated with mining activities in the region.

Source: Al Jazeera