More than 45 people were killed and around 70 others were injured after a powerful explosion ripped through a building storing mining explosives in northeastern Myanmar on Sunday, according to rescue workers and local media reports. The blast struck Kaungtup village in Namhkam township around noon, triggering panic across the area and causing widespread destruction.
The village lies roughly three kilometres south of the Chinese border in an area controlled by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army. Rescue workers said emergency teams rushed to the scene shortly after the explosion as residents searched through debris for survivors.
Rescue Teams Recover Bodies as Damage Spreads Across Village
A rescue worker at the site said teams recovered 46 bodies by Sunday evening, including six children. Authorities transferred the bodies for cremation while medical teams moved at least 74 injured people to the township hospital for treatment. Another rescuer said the blast also damaged more than 100 nearby homes.
Meanwhile, local independent media reported higher death toll estimates ranging from 50 to 55. Photos and videos shared online showed thick smoke rising into the sky while nearby buildings suffered extensive structural damage.
China’s state broadcaster CCTV also reported multiple casualties and severe destruction in residential areas close to the blast site.
Investigation Underway as Authorities Provide Relief
According to preliminary findings cited by CCTV, the explosion occurred at a facility storing large quantities of mining explosives. In a statement posted on Telegram, the TNLA confirmed that gelignite had been stored there for mining and stone quarrying operations.
The group said an investigation into the cause of the blast remains underway. At the same time, authorities have started relief operations, medical treatment, and temporary resettlement support for affected residents.
