Myanmar junta launches 30 airstrikes in four-day crackdown on Mon State gold mining zone

Mizzima

According to local sources, Myanmar’s military junta has targeted villages and gold mining operations in Mon State’s Bilin Township with four straight days of airstrikes, causing multiple casualties.

The aerial assaults, running from June 22 through 25 June, struck the villages of Win Maung, Win Ka Taik, Bin Ban, Baw Paw Hta, Shwe Laung Inn, and Nyaung Twe Lel, alongside nearby mining sites, leaving residents dead and injured.

A local resident noted that the bombardments likely clear the way for an upcoming ground assault, explaining that troops advancing from Nat Kyi can move forward much easier with air cover.

The source said, “The military intends to secure the territory, document their findings, burn down local shelters for display, and that the operations are proceeding following recent parliamentary discussions regarding the gold mining area.”

Reports suggest the airstrikes, totalling at least 30 bombing runs over four days, are part of a targeted crackdown on local gold mining operations. Fears of escalating clashes are rising as a junta ground column advance from its base in Nat Kyi village.

While injuries among gold miners have been reported, the precise casualty count remains unverified by Mizzima.

A gold mine owner revealed that operators are forced to pay bribes to both local junta officials and the Karen National Union (KNU) to work in the region.

The owner said, “The central government lacks control over the territory, official permits are not granted, forcing miners to simply go where the gold is despite a widespread desire to operate legally.

These recent airstrikes have not only brought gold mining operations to a halt but have also forced thousands of civilians to flee to safer areas.

On 11 March, the junta conducted at least 15 airstrikes in a single day on areas including Wet Khaw Pa, Win Maung, Ma Lay Kyaut, Pha Wa Htwa, and Mae Pan Wa in Bilin Township, resulting in two civilian deaths and 18 injuries, according to news sources.