The junta launched two airstrikes in Mawchi Town, Hpasawng Township, Bawlakhe District, Karenni State, an area known for its tungsten mines, killing civilians and damaging buildings, town residents reported.

On August 17, around 8:00 am, junta aircraft bombed Mawchi, followed by a second attack around noon.

“It’s true, the junta bombed Mawchi, and it happened twice in a single day. Homes, a hospital, and other buildings were destroyed,” a Mawchi resident told NMG.

Local news outlets reported that the junta’s air raids killed over 20 people, but the NMG has been able to confirm only 2 deaths so far.

Residents allege that the junta’s bombings in Mawchi targeted areas housing a hospital and a kindergarten.

The morning bombing struck a hospital near Lokalo Village on the outskirts of Mawchi Town, while the noon attack hit a kindergarten in Hill 16 Ward.

Witnesses and rescue teams on the ground reported numerous civilian casualties from the two airstrikes, though no exact numbers have been released.

Locals reported that the damaged buildings included homes, shops, restaurants, a hospital, and a kindergarten.

“The building that was hit was a small hospital. It was badly damaged, and people were hurt. There were many injured, but we don’t have exact details on the casualties yet,” a rescue worker from Mawchi said.

Even though there were no active battles in Mawchi, the junta bombed civilian areas for no apparent reason.

In July, the junta conducted at least three airstrikes on Mawchi, leaving 11 locals dead and at least 5 others injured.