Despite declaring a ceasefire from May 6 to May 31, the military council conducted an airstrike on a school in Depaeyin Township, Sagaing Region, on May 12. The attack resulted in the deaths of 22 students and 2 teachers. CDM lecturer Daw Htar Tin, who personally visited the site, provided detailed information about the incident.
According to Daw Htar Tin, who has experienced numerous airstrikes before, typical 500-pound bombs usually create craters about 4 feet deep with diameters of 10-15 feet. However, in this attack, she observed hundreds of smaller craters approximately 8 inches in diameter and depth scattered around the building. These craters were spread out in a pattern similar to cluster munitions, with dark marks covering the area.
The analysis suggests these were cluster bombs, a type of weapon prohibited even in conventional warfare and banned by international conventions. However, the military council has disregarded international regulations and continues to brutally attack innocent civilians. The attack caused severe injuries to students, including dismemberment and head trauma.
The school had approximately 100 students in attendance, with over 100 injured and 23 confirmed deaths. Local residents arrange school schedules based on agricultural seasons and military situations, making every effort to maintain children’s education. However, due to the military council’s brutal attacks, educational activities have been temporarily suspended and will resume depending on security conditions.
