At least eight people were killed when an air strike hit a civilian supply convoy in Myanmar’s central Sagaing region, according to local residents.
The attack took place on 11 August near the village of Taung Yin, around 17 kilometres from Mandalay. The convoy of trucks had been halted by clashes between military forces and anti-coup fighters when it was struck from the air.
One witness said it was difficult to identify some of the victims as the blast had caused severe injuries. Another resident reported that the trucks were transporting fuel to areas held by anti-coup forces and suggested the military targeted them to cut off supplies.
Images posted on social media, which have not been verified, appeared to show burning vehicles and people carrying bodies from the scene.
Myanmar’s military has relied heavily on air power in its conflict with rebel groups since taking control in a 2021 coup. The fighting has displaced more than 3.5 million people and pushed half the country into poverty.
The junta has announced plans to hold elections in December, but pro-democracy groups and ethnic armed organisations have vowed to boycott the vote, describing it as an attempt to maintain military rule.
Recent reports suggest the military has regained some territory in central Myanmar, possibly in preparation for holding the election in those areas.
A spokesperson for the military was not available for comment.
Let us unite our hearts in prayer for the people of Myanmar, especially the families mourning those lost in this tragic attack. May the grieving find comfort, the injured receive healing, and the nation know an end to violence. We ask for peace to be restored, justice to prevail, and for protection over the innocent. May God’s mercy and light bring hope to all who suffer.
This is a rewritten version of the original article publish in UCA News.
