At least 46 people were killed and more than 70 others injured after a massive explosion struck an explosives depot in northeastern Myanmar, according to local reports cited by regional media.
The blast occurred in Shan State near the Chinese border, an area affected by ongoing conflict involving armed groups and Myanmar’s military. Witnesses described a powerful explosion followed by large fires and thick smoke rising from the site. Some local rescue workers later suggested the death toll could be even higher as recovery operations continued. Local sources said the depot stored explosives and other military-related materials. Rescue efforts were reportedly complicated by the scale of the destruction and ongoing security concerns in the surrounding area.
Myanmar has faced intense instability since the military seized power in a 2021 coup, triggering widespread unrest and armed resistance movements across the country. Fighting between the military and opposition forces has spread across several regions, especially in border areas where ethnic armed groups remain active.
The latest explosion adds to growing fears over the worsening security situation in Myanmar, where civilians continue to be affected by violence linked to the ongoing conflict. Authorities have not yet released a full official explanation for the cause of the blast.
