A total of 18 civilians lost their lives in April due to military junta’s attacks and natural disasters in Karenni (Kayah) State and the Shan-Karenni border area, with airstrikes accounting for the majority of deaths, according to data from the Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC).
Of the 18 fatalities, 12 were caused by airstrikes, three by artillery shelling, and three by natural disasters, the IEC stated.
In addition, the IEC reported that 36 people were injured in April — 29 from airstrikes, five from artillery shelling, and two from drone attacks.
Among the three deaths caused by natural disasters, a 12-year-old child drowned, a 70-year-old man was killed by a falling rock during heavy rainfall, and a 42-year-old woman died after being struck by lightning.
A local man expressed growing fear in the region, stating: “It’s like we’re living in a constant state of fear now. Lately, it’s not just the junta attacks after earthquakes. We’re also scared of the natural disasters and their aftermath.”
The junta has continued relentless attacks using airstrikes and artillery shelling in townships including Pekon, Loikaw, Demoso, Hpruso, Hpasawng, and Mese.
These attacks have damaged civilian homes and public buildings, while natural disasters have destroyed 15 homes, according to IEC data.
Sent by Kantarawaddy Times.
