Death Toll Passes 40 After Myanmar Military Bombing of Kyauktaw Market; 33 Bodies Recovered

Shin Min Zan/Poe War – Narinjara, September 28, 2026

At least 33 bodies have been recovered and the total death toll is estimated to exceed 40 following a lethal junta airstrike targeting the "India Market" and the Kissapanadi Bridge in Kyauktaw, Arakan State.

U Khine Thukha, spokesperson for the Arakan Army (AA), confirmed the casualties to Narinjara News, adding that nearly 50 others were injured in the attack.

"According to the latest information, the death toll has risen to over 40, and the number of injured is approaching 50," U Khine Thukha said.

While 33 bodies have been retrieved so far, several victims remain unaccounted for. AA officials noted that a number of bodies were burned to ashes by the blasts, making recovery and identification impossible.

"The death toll could rise further," U Khine Thukha warned. "Some bodies were so badly burned that they are completely unrecognizable."

The airstrikes occurred today, September 28, in two rapid waves at 12:10 PM and 12:14 PM. According to local sources, Myanmar military jet fighters deliberately targeted the bustling market and the nearby Kissapanadi Bridge during peak trading hours.

The bombardment severely damaged the Kissapanadi Bridge, inflicting heavy casualties on pedestrians crossing at the time. The strikes also triggered massive fires inside the India Market, destroying dozens of shops alongside civilian vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, three-wheelers (tuk-tuks), and agricultural trucks.

Detailed information regarding the names, ages, and addresses of the deceased and injured has not yet been confirmed due to the ongoing chaos at the scene.

In response to the assault, the AA vowed decisive military retaliation against the perpetrators.

"To ensure justice for the civilians who lost their lives in this incident, the ULA/AA will identify every single individual involved in this terrorist attack and launch a retaliatory strike," U Khine Thukha stated.