An airstrike on a private high school in Myanmar's Arakan State has killed at least 18 students and injured 20, according to reports from a local resident and the Arakan Army (AA).

The airstrike targeted the Pinyar Pan Kon private boarding school in Thayet Pin village, Kyauktaw Township.

A local resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the school was hit with 500-pound bombs.

Photos obtained by Narinjara News showed images of dead children piled up in a cemetery.

The Arakan Army (AA) also reported the casualties, stating that 18 students were killed and more than 20 injured.

The report said the airstrikes happened during the night, with two 500-pound bombs landing directly in front of the private boarding high school in Thayet Pin village. 

Initial reports indicate the victims were students and some children from nearby homes. More than 20 people were seriously injured.