Myanmar rebels suspected of burning 120 trucks in northeastern state

Myanmar media reported that rebels used a small UAV to drop bombs on a parking lot in Shan state, causing about 120 trucks to catch fire.

"The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and People's Defense Force (PDF) groups have carried out bombings to disrupt the flow of goods in Shan State and undermine peace and stability in the region by attacking non-military targets," the Global New Light of Myanmar (GNLM) reported on November 24.

According to GNLM, gunmen used a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to drop bombs into a company’s parking lot at the Kyinsankyawt border gate on the Myanmar-China border on the morning of November 23. A fire broke out after the bombs hit vehicles parked in the lot and spread from one vehicle to another.

"Due to the actions of MNDAA, TNLA and PDF groups, about 120 out of 258 vehicles carrying consumer goods, household appliances, clothing and building materials were burned down by fire," the GNLM said.

Fire in a parking lot at the Kyinsankyawt border gate area, Myanmar on November 23. Photo: GNLM — Fire in a parking lot at the Kyinsankyawt border gate area, Myanmar on November 23. Photo: *GNLM*

A spokesman for one of the rebel groups denied the attack on the convoy in Shan State, saying they did not carry out attacks to “destroy the interests of civilians”.

Clashes between Myanmar government forces and rebels have recently escalated as these groups launched coordinated attacks on military bases and police stations. Myanmar rebels have taken control of several towns and outposts in the country's northeast.

The United Nations says about two million people in Myanmar have been displaced by the escalating fighting. A UN spokesman said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was "deeply concerned by the escalation of conflict in Myanmar" and called on all parties to protect civilians.

Myanmar media reported earlier this week that at least 10 people were killed when a rocket hit a vehicle carrying civilians for evacuation in Shan State. Spokesmen for Myanmar’s military government and a rebel group operating in the area both condemned the attack and denied involvement.