Sun Jan 12 23:40:00 UTC 2025: **Myanmar Junta Air Strike Kills at Least 15 Civilians in Kachin State**
**Bangkok, January 13, 2025** – A Myanmar junta air strike on a gold mining market in northern Kachin state has resulted in the deaths of at least 15 civilians and injuries to 10 more, according to a spokesperson for the Kachin Independence Army (KIA). The attack, which occurred Saturday around 11:00 a.m. in Tanaing Township, targeted civilians including miners and shopkeepers. Graphic images show a large crater and widespread destruction in the area. A local resident reported that three more of the wounded have since succumbed to their injuries.
The KIA, which controls significant portions of Kachin state, a region rich in jade and rare earth elements, has been engaged in decades-long conflict with the Myanmar military. The junta’s actions are part of an ongoing campaign to suppress resistance following the 2021 coup. The military has been accused of repeatedly targeting civilian populations. In a separate incident, the Arakan Army reported junta airstrikes on a market in Arakan State, resulting in civilian casualties, though exact numbers were not provided. The junta has yet to comment on these incidents. The KIA spokesperson stated that the junta accuses the KIA of arming and training the People’s Defence Forces, further fueling the conflict.
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