Myanmar Explosion Kills Over 45 Near China Border
An explosion in northeastern Myanmar killed over 45 people. Six children were among the dead.
About 70 to 74 others were hurt. The blast happened around midday in the village of Kaungtup.
The village is about 3 km from the Chinese border. Mining explosives stored at the site caused the blast.
A rebel group called the Ta'ang National Liberation Army controls the area. The group said the explosives were kept by its mining department.
Over 100 nearby homes were also damaged. At least 46 bodies had been found by Sunday evening. The rebel group has launched an inquiry into the cause.
Klear Note — Myanmar's northeastern border region has armed groups controlling territory. The Ta'ang National Liberation Army operates independently from the government there.
Key Terms 2
- Ta'ang National Liberation Army A rebel armed group that controls parts of northeastern Myanmar
- gelignite A powerful explosive used in mining and construction work