MIP reports nearly 97 per cent of airstrikes occur in Myanmar’s internet blackout zones

Mizzima

A report by the Myanmar Internet Project (MIP) issued 26 October reveals that out of 581 documented airstrikes in Myanmar between July and September 2024, 562 incidents took place in regions suffering from internet blackouts, resulting in at least 353 civilian fatalities.

According to MIP records, approximately 96.7 per cent of the airstrikes documented during this three-month period occurred in areas without internet access.

The report states that airstrikes affected 99 townships across 13 states and regions, excluding Yangon Region. The targeted areas include Sagaing, Rakhine, and Magway.

Sagaing Region experienced the highest geographical impact with 23 affected townships, followed by Rakhine State with 15 townships and Magway Region with 12 townships.

In terms of frequency, Rakhine State recorded the highest number of strikes with 151 incidents, followed by Sagaing Region with 107 and Magway Region with 106. MIP noted that these three regions accounted for approximately 62.65 percent of all documented airstrikes.

Civilian casualties and infrastructure damage

The 581 airstrikes resulted in at least 353 civilian deaths, including at least 90 women, 34 children, and 43 elderly persons.

MIP warned that the actual death toll on the ground likely exceeds the documented figures, as communication barriers prevented the verification of casualty counts in several attacks.

The report detailed the destruction of 39 religious buildings, four hospitals and clinics, two IDP camps, three markets, and 16 schools.

The majority of these structures were located in internet blackout zones. MIP analysed that the destruction of medical facilities continues to impact local access to healthcare, while attacks on non-military targets like markets resulted in mass civilian casualties.

The report further noted that while numerous civilian-owned properties, such as homes and shops, were destroyed, an exact count could not be established.

Escalation of air attacks

MIP’s analysis indicates that the use of airpower has surged by over 11 per cent compared to the previous quarter.

The report assessed that the military junta continues to exercise excessive airpower in regions where it is launching offensives to regain territorial control.

MIP highlighted that civilians residing in internet blackout zones face a significantly higher risk of injury and death due to airstrikes.

Data for this report was compiled daily by MIP through information published by local news outlets and independent media organizations.