31 October 2024 ၊ NJArtillery fire from military units in Ann Town, Arakan State, killed more than 10 civilians and wounded over 20 others.

Early reports by Arakan News Network confirmed that the dead included Ko Aung Aung, a 16-year-old recent high school graduate, along with teacher Daw Hla Hla, U Tun Tun, and his son, all from Lay Yin Kwin area in Ann Town.

A local woman told Arakan News Network that around 2:30 pm on October 29, military units fired shells, with two hitting the town and causing widespread deaths and injuries.

"Yesterday afternoon, military shelling killed both kids and grown-ups. Some lost their legs, others their lower bodies before dying. At least 20 people died, including a student and teacher who bled out after losing their legs," she reported.

Locals said one shell hit Lay Yin Kwin area in Ann Town, while another exploded by the stream. Some victims were displaced people.

"People fleeing fighting north of Ann to the town were killed when a shell landed by the stream as they escaped with their things," a resident explained.

Another local woman told Arakan News Network that Ann Town's main hospital couldn't treat the wounded, forcing them to seek care in Magway Region.

"There's no one to help the injured. The doctor said to go to Magway but refused to treat us. How can we when the road's closed? Some died from their wounds without timely treatment," she added.

Residents also said more shells hit Myo Thit area and Ward 4 on the morning of October 30, causing more injuries.