Member of 'Shwe Yaung Metta Foundation' Among Victims of Sittwe Airstrike

Narinjara, October 23, 2026

A member of the Sittwe-based social welfare organization, Shwe Yaung Metta Foundation (Golden Metta Foundation), was among at least five civilians killed during a military junta airstrike in the capital of Arakkha State on Friday morning.

The attack occurred around 8:00 AM when a military Y-12 transport aircraft dropped two bombs targeting the Maw Leik and Kyaung Tet Lan wards, near the Shwe Nga Store in central Sittwe. Local sources reported that one bomb exploded in front of a crowded teashop, while the second detonated on nearby Ka Sit Taw Road.

The Shwe Yaung Metta Foundation confirmed the death of 23-year-old Ko Swe Swe Maung, a resident of Mingan Ward’s Block 8, who was active in the group's community welfare programs. In a statement released Friday evening, the foundation expressed deep sorrow, honoring his contributions and offering condolences to his family.

Another deceased civilian has been identified as Ko Wai Yan Kyaw. In addition to the five confirmed fatalities, more than ten residents sustained injuries in the residential area.

The unexpected bombing has left central Sittwe residents in a state of severe panic. Meanwhile, local reports note that junta supporters have begun spreading propaganda online, using outdated photos and video footage to falsely attribute the deadly strike to the Arakan Army (AA).