Myanmar Junta Airstrikes Kill Displaced Woman, Target IDP Camps in Eastern Loikaw

A 50-year-old internally displaced woman was killed and multiple civilian structures were destroyed after the Myanmar military junta launched coordinated airstrikes across three locations in eastern Loikaw Township, Karenni (Kayah) State, local sources report.

The aerial assault, executed by three military aircraft, occurred at approximately 5:00 p.m. on July 14. The victim died on impact after being struck by bomb shrapnel.

Residents confirmed that the military regime targeted two camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and a civilian village, dropping a total of 14 bombs during the raid.

“They dropped six bombs directly onto one IDP camp, killing one civilian,” a resident told Kantarawaddy Times. “They dropped another two bombs on a nearby village, which damaged several houses and vehicles, though fortunately no one was hurt there. An additional six bombs were dropped in the Pon Chaung area.”

The sudden bombardment triggered panic among the civilian population.

Due to widespread telecommunications disruptions in the aftermath of the attack, families have struggled to verify the safety of their relatives.

“My child's father was staying at one of the targeted sites,” a woman from a neighboring displacement camp said. “I tried calling to check if everyone was safe, but we couldn't get any internet or mobile connection. I believe most of the residents have fled into the surrounding forests and mountains for safety.”

Local sources emphasized that there were no active clashes or military engagements between the junta and resistance forces in the area before the airstrikes, indicating that the attacks directly targeted civilian settlements.

The local population remains in a state of high anxiety as unprovoked aerial bombardments continue to threaten safe zones across Karenni State.