Massive blast devastates rebel-held Myanmar village, killing dozens

A massive explosion in Kaung Tat village in Namkham Township, Shan State, near the Chinese border, killed at least 55 people (about 25 women and 30 men) and wounded dozens in a rebel-held area controlled by the Ta'ang National Liberation Army. The TNLA said the blast was caused by explosives used in mining and quarrying and described it as an accidental explosion; some residents initially feared an air strike. The scene showed a crater, damaged homes and widespread destruction, with safety lax in mining contributing to such accidents in areas funded by mineral extraction amid ongoing conflict with Myanmar's military junta.