Aye Myat Khaing, 12 January 2025

The military junta launched a series of airstrikes on Kyauktaw town of Arakan State yesterday morning killing nine civilians and injuring 30 others.  

A source close to the Kyauktaw township administration informed that the airstrikes deliberately targeted the urban wards comprising markets and populated areas.

“The death toll has reached nine, including two individuals who died in front of Mya Sein Yaung guesthouse. Nearly 30 others, some with serious injuries, are currently receiving medical attention and care,” added the source.

According to a list obtained by Narinjara News, the injured individuals include U Sanda Wara from Pyi Taw Tar monastery along with Ma Htay Htay Yin, Ko Myo Win, Daw Phyu Phyu Thant, Ma May Myat Thwe, Ma Nilar Shwe and Maung Thein Zaw Tun (only 14 years old).  

A female resident of Kyauktaw described the devastation caused by the strikes, saying that an unexploded bomb was found near the hospital. Almost the entire city people are affected and they remain clueless what to do.

The Arakan Army (AA) in a statement confirmed that the junta forces launched three airstrikes on Kyauktaw with fighter jets on the morning of 11 January. The jets dropped 15 bombs in three waves (at 9, 9:10 and 9:15 am).  

The victims include vendors, buyers and pedestrians. Many residential buildings and market stalls were also damaged. The AA stated that it would continue providing updates on casualties and heavy destruction to properties.

The junta soldiers have been conducting continuous airstrikes in Arakan State in recent days. The airstrikes hit Ponnagyun, Taungup, Myebon and Ramree townships in between 31 December 2024, and 11 January 2025 and resulted in more than 100 casualties.  

Photograph: Damage to Kyauktaw town because of airstrikes (old one).