A series of unconventional airstrikes involving paramotors and gyrocopters has killed five civilians, including a 13-year-old girl, in Pale Township, Sagaing Region.
The attacks, which began on the night of 4 March, targeted Ma Yoe Tone village and resulted in the immediate deaths of four residents – 85-year-old Daw Mi Kyi, 80-year-old Daw San Aye, 13-year-old Ma Myat Lay Nwe, and 47-year-old Ko Htun Myint.
A fifth victim, who was among several seriously injured in the initial strike, succumbed to their wounds on the morning of 5 March.
“Last night, two paramotors from the North-Western Command dropped bombs, and another was dropped by a gyrocopter this morning. Four people were killed yesterday, and one more of the injured died this morning,” a local resident told Mizzima on March 5.
Two gyrocopters from the North-Western Command carried out another airstrike on 5 March, though the extent of the damage is not yet known, the local resident added.
A member of the resistance force said the Myanmar junta has been carrying out airstrikes since 28 February while columns are advancing in Pale Township and looting public property in villages.
“The military has been moving around villages, looting property and carrying out raids, and there have been some clashes. Further details will be released by those responsible,” he said.
Due to the military incursion, residents from Chaung Oo, Naw Roe, Nwe In, Chin Pyit Kyin, Pyaw Bwe Kyin, Tha Pyay Hla, Ma Yoe Tone, Chin Pyit, Shout Rin Kone, Kyar Si, Thar Zi, Pi Tauk Kone, Pauk Tha Pha In, Nan Thar Kone, Thae Kone, Let Pan Tan, Hlaing, Mong Thwin and Ywa Naung villages are reportedly fleeing their homes.
The junta is carrying out operations across the township, accompanied by on-going airstrikes. Defence forces have urged the public to stay alert and follow their instructions to ensure civilian safety.
Following the surrender of Burma National Revolutionary Army (BNRA) leader Bo Nagar on 18 February, the junta has reinforced its presence and entered Pale Township, including areas previously under his control, carrying out heavy airstrikes.
