Explosion at TNLA explosives depot kills at least 55 in northern Shan State

At least 55 people were killed and dozens more injured following a massive explosion at an explosives storage depot in Namhkam Township, northern Shan State, Myanmar.

The site, used for mining and quarrying activities, is controlled by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), one of the country’s most prominent ethnic armed groups.

The blast occurred in Kawngtat Village around midday on Sunday, according to statements from the TNLA. Residents and local rescue teams reported widespread destruction, with nearby homes heavily damaged or completely destroyed.

Emergency personnel confirmed that women and children were among the casualties, and over 70 injured individuals were transported to local hospitals for treatment.

The TNLA described the incident as an accident and stated there was no evidence of foul play. The group has initiated investigations and pledged to take action against those found responsible.

Relief and reconstruction efforts are reportedly being coordinated with relevant departments, and condolences were extended to affected families.

Eyewitnesses and first responders provided varying figures regarding the death toll. One rescue worker reported 46 fatalities, including six children, while another cited 59 deaths.

Sources indicated that more victims could be trapped under the debris of destroyed houses. Bodies were being collected by emergency teams for cremation.

The explosives involved belonged to the TNLA’s economic department, used for mining and stone quarrying. Accidents involving explosives and lax safety standards are reportedly common in Myanmar’s border regions, where armed groups rely on mineral extraction to finance operations against the military.

Namhkam Township came under TNLA control during ‘Operation 1027,’ when the group joined other ethnic armed organisations to launch attacks against Myanmar’s military junta.

The Brotherhood Alliance, comprising the TNLA, the Arakan Army, and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, reached a China-brokered ceasefire with the military in early 2024. However, TNLA attacks resumed in June 2024, capturing the northern ruby-mining town of Mogoke before withdrawing in October under Chinese mediation.

Myanmar has been embroiled in civil conflict since the military coup in 2021, with the armed forces engaging a range of pro-democracy militias and ethnic minority armed groups. Analysts note that Beijing plays a significant role as a power broker, balancing its support between the military and rebel factions in line with economic and security interests.

The Namhkam explosion has intensified concerns among local residents about the risks associated with storing explosives near residential areas. Investigations into the precise cause of the detonation are ongoing.