Military council troops from Light Infantry Battalion 50 in Gangaw Township, Magway Region, conducted a raid on Let Ma village, resulting in the mass killing of 11 civilians including children and the arrest of more than 20 others, according to local residents. The military column from LIB 50 entered the village around 2 AM on May 12, suddenly launching an operation within the community. After entering the village, the troops gathered villagers in the center, proceeding to arrest some while shooting others to death.
Among those killed were Hlan Htun (age 12), Hmoung Way (age 13), Thiha Lin and Myo Thiha (both age 15), John Ko Win and Kyaw Myat Thu (both age 19), Thet Paing Oo (age 23), Kyaw San Khaing (age 24), Nay Lin Oo (age 25), Nyi Lay (age 27), and Aung Kyaw Min (age 39). The massacre included three children under the age of 15, with the youngest victim being only 12 years old. This brutal attack has highlighted the military council’s continued violence against civilians, including minors.
According to a local resident, the military council forces quickly withdrew from the village after conducting the killings and arrests. The fate of the more than 20 civilians who were taken away remains unknown, leaving their family members deeply worried about their safety and wellbeing. This attack on innocent civilians has created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety among local residents, who are increasingly concerned about their security. The incident represents another example of the military council’s ongoing campaign of violence against Myanmar’s civilian population, particularly affecting vulnerable communities in rural areas.
