Massive explosion in Myanmar kills over 45 people

Istanbul (ANTARA) - A massive explosion occurred at a building reportedly used as a mining explosives storage facility in northeastern Myanmar on Sunday (31 May), killing more than 45 people, according to rescue officials and local media. The explosion, which happened around midday in Namhkam town, Shan State, also injured approximately 70 others. The incident site is located about 3 kilometres south of the China border controlled by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), an ethnic armed group and political organisation fighting for autonomy in Myanmar. Chinese state television CCTV reported that many civilian homes were damaged in the blast. Initial findings indicate the explosion occurred at a mining explosives storage facility. Several Myanmar media outlets reported that the death toll ranged between 50 and 55. Photos and videos circulating on local media showed large plumes of smoke at the scene, with damaged buildings and debris scattered across the area. “So far, among the casualties, 25 are reported to be women and 30 men, with dozens more injured and some believed to be trapped as rescue operations continue,” reported Shan State’s Shwe Phee Myay news agency. Disaster officials have called on the public to donate blood at Namhkam General Hospital as the situation continues to develop, according to the report. In a statement posted on Telegram, the TNLA admitted to storing gelignite for use at mining and excavation sites. They added that an investigation into the cause of the explosion has begun.