Dozens killed by blast in rebel-held Myanmar village

An explosion in Kaungtup village, located in Myanmar's northeastern Namhkam township near the Chinese border, has resulted in the deaths of more than 45 people. Rescue workers and independent media reports indicate that approximately 70 others were injured in the blast, which occurred around noon.

The area is under the control of the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), an ethnic armed group engaged in conflict with Myanmar's central government. A rescue worker at the scene reported that 46 bodies had been recovered by Sunday evening and taken for cremation. This individual, who spoke anonymously for security reasons, also stated that 74 injured individuals were transported to the township hospital, with rescue operations ongoing.

Another rescuer in Namhkam, also speaking anonymously, estimated around 40 deaths and over 100 damaged houses. Images from the site depict the village largely destroyed. Myanmar media outlets, including the Shwe Phee Myay news agency, reported death tolls ranging from 50 to 55 and published photos and videos showing smoke, damaged buildings, and debris.

Initial investigations suggest the blast was caused by mining explosives stored in a nearby warehouse. The TNLA confirmed that gelignite, used for mining and stone quarrying, was stored by their economic department and that an investigation into the explosion's cause is underway. Gelignite can become unstable if poorly stored. The TNLA, part of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, has controlled the Namhkam area since late 2023. While the alliance signed a ceasefire with Myanmar's military in October following China-mediated talks, relations remain tense.

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There could be more dead people under their destroyed houses.