The blast occurred around noon local time on Sunday in Kaung Tat village, Shan State, northern Myanmar, near the Chinese border. According to local media The Irrawaddy, at least 46 people, including six children, were killed and more than 70 wounded. A rescue worker told Shwe Phee Myay news agency that the death toll could rise to 55.
Many houses were destroyed or damaged. Social media images showed a huge column of smoke rising into the sky with secondary explosions, and many buildings completely collapsed. Rescue operations are ongoing.
The area where the blast occurred is under the control of the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) — one of Myanmar's largest rebel groups, which has been fighting for autonomy for decades. In a Facebook statement, TNLA confirmed the explosion happened at a depot storing explosives used in mining. The region is known for its ruby mines.
TNLA said the blast caused "many casualties" among the local civilian community but did not provide a specific figure. The group is investigating the cause of the incident and said it will hold those responsible accountable.
