Explosion in TNLA-Controlled Namkham Village Leaves About 20 Dead

An explosion occurred on May 31 in Kaung Tat village, Namkham Township, which is controlled by the TNLA, leaving around 20 local residents dead and many others injured, according to reports received by around 5 p.m.

The blast reportedly took place shortly after noon in Kaung Tat village, causing damage to homes and injuring many residents. Local media initially reported several deaths, but the number of casualties later increased.

“Around 20 people have died so far in Kaung Tat village near Namkham Hospital. They said an explosives storage site exploded. The death toll is rising, and the injured are being treated at Namkham Hospital,” a resident from northern Shan State said at around 5 p.m.

In a statement regarding the incident, the TNLA said that the explosion occurred at around noon on May 31 in Kaung Tat village, Namkham Township, when soft explosives stored for mining and stone production operations accidentally detonated.

The TNLA stated that the explosion caused numerous deaths and injuries among local residents and also destroyed many homes. The group expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the victims and their families.

According to the statement, the explosives belonged to the PSLF/TNLA economic department and had been stored for use in mining and stone extraction activities. The TNLA added that authorities are conducting a detailed investigation into the cause of the explosion and that responsible individuals will face legal action.

The group also said that rescue operations, healthcare assistance, and rehabilitation efforts for affected residents are being carried out as quickly as possible in cooperation with relevant departments.