An explosives factory near Panghsang Town, controlled by the United Wa State Army (UWSA) in Shan State, exploded, claiming many lives.

On the evening of April 7, an explosives factory in Yawngban Village, near Panghsang Town, detonated. The exact death toll is unknown, but a local source told the Shan Herald it could exceed 100.

“It wasn’t a weapons factory, but we can confirm that gunpowder stockpiles exploded, causing devastating damage. Many people died, and the blast was so powerful—it might have been from some kind of high-grade explosive,” he said.

Initial reports suggest the death toll could be over 100, but the Shan Herald is still investigating to confirm the exact number of casualties.

Residents of Panghsang believe the facility that exploded was not a weapons factory, but one producing explosives for mining.

The factory’s owner, a Chinese national, is currently being held by the UWSA.

A similar incident occurred in late March 2019, when an explosives factory in Mongmao Town, also controlled by the UWSA exploded, killing many.