At least 12 killed in airstrike on Myanmar village, local official reports

A Myanmar junta airstrike on a village controlled by anti-coup fighters resulted in at least 12 fatalities, according to a local administrative official. The official stated that the attack targeted civilian areas, highlighting the increasing use of air strikes by the embattled military government. Since seizing power in a 2021 coup, Myanmar’s military has been engaged in a protracted civil war, relying on air raids to suppress opposition forces.  

The strike occurred on Friday afternoon in Letpanhla, a village approximately 60 kilometers (40 miles) north of Mandalay, within Singu township. This area is held by the People's Defence Forces (PDF), a resistance group formed in response to the military's takeover. The local official, speaking anonymously, reported that bombs were dropped in crowded locations, including a market area, leading to high casualties. By Saturday, 12 deaths had been officially recorded, although the local PDF unit claimed the number of fatalities was 27.  

Eyewitness Myint Soe, 62, described hiding as the aircraft launched its attack, followed by powerful explosions. Upon emerging, he saw the market engulfed in flames. Several buildings, including homes and a restaurant, were on fire, with civilians and PDF members attempting to extinguish the flames. A harrowing scene unfolded as the body of a child with a head wound was placed into an ambulance by a man wearing a PDF-marked uniform. The sound of grieving voices filled the air as some onlookers gazed skyward.  

Myanmar remains divided among junta forces, ethnic armed groups, and anti-coup resistance movements. According to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data (ACLED), military airstrikes targeting civilians have increased dramatically, with nearly 800 incidents recorded in 2024—more than three times the previous year’s total. Analysts predict the junta will continue relying on air power due to mounting pressure from opposition forces on the ground.  

In late 2023, an offensive by an alliance of ethnic armed groups dealt significant territorial losses to the military. However, the Myanmar air force, backed by Russian technical support, has played a crucial role in maintaining the junta’s grip on power, particularly in border regions. The ongoing conflict has led to over 3.5 million people being displaced, with half of the population now living in poverty.