The Myanmar military carried out an airstrike on Mogok, a town controlled by rebels and known for its ruby mines on Saturday. As a result, 13 people were killed. A local resident and a rebel spokesperson confirmed the tragic event.

Conflict Grows Since 2021 Coup

Since the military staged a coup in 2021, Myanmar has faced increasing civil conflict. Pro-democracy groups joined forces with ethnic armed organisations that have opposed the military for years. At first, their efforts were disorganised and weak. However, by late 2023, their coordinated attacks led them to capture large areas, including Mogok—the centre of Myanmar’s ruby trade.

Civilian Deaths Shock Locals

According to a resident who asked not to be named, the strike happened around 8:15 am. He said, “Seven people died instantly, and six more later from their injuries.” Among the victims were a Buddhist monk collecting alms and a father and son riding a motorbike.

Furthermore, he added, “A car passing through the area was hit, too. Seven people were wounded, including the driver.” His account paints a grim picture of the strike’s impact on civilians.

Rebels Confirm the Incident

Later, Lway Yay Oo, a spokeswoman for the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), confirmed the death toll. She stated, “It was in the morning time when the airstrike hit a public area.” Since many people were on the street at the time, she said, “a lot of people were killed.” TNLA fighters have held Mogok since mid-2023.

Military Regains Some Ground

Although rebels had gained territory, the military has started to push back. To strengthen its forces, the junta introduced conscription. Recently, it recaptured Thabeikkyin, a gold-rich town. It took nearly a year-long battle for the military to retake the area.

Junta Ends Emergency, Promotes Elections

Meanwhile, the junta announced the end of the state of emergency it imposed after removing Aung San Suu Kyi from power. On Thursday, it said elections would be held in December, suggesting this could be a path toward peace.

However, Suu Kyi is still imprisoned, and opposition leaders have refused to participate. In fact, a UN expert in June described the planned elections as “a fraud” and said they were only meant to “legitimise the junta’s continued rule.”

Rich Resources Fuel Conflict

It’s important to note that Myanmar is rich in gemstones and rare earth elements. All sides in the conflict seek control over these resources. They sell them—mainly to China—to fund their military activities. As a result, towns like Mogok remain highly contested.