A military airstrike using a 500-pound bomb targeted Panmahteip village east of Mogok city in Mandalay Region, resulting in injuries to six civilians including a child, according to an official from the Pyin Oo Lwin District People’s Defense Force (PDF). The aerial attack occurred around midnight on July 13, when a fighter jet approaching from the Tadaoo area deliberately targeted the village. The bombing caused significant damage to seven houses in the village while inflicting concerning injuries on civilian residents.
The Pyin Oo Lwin District PDF has issued special warnings to local residents to construct bomb shelters for protection against military airstrikes and to remain vigilant about their security. They have also advised civilians to relocate away from areas where military council troops are present. The deliberate targeting of civilian areas through airstrikes constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law and could be classified as war crimes, according to human rights observers. Local sources report that military council forces have been targeting civilians in the Mogok region during ongoing clashes with People’s Defense Forces.
The military council’s continued use of airstrikes against civilian populations has raised serious humanitarian concerns, with local defense forces working to protect and warn civilians about potential attacks. The incident at Panmahteip village represents another instance of the military targeting civilian infrastructure and populations, causing both physical damage to residential areas and inflicting casualties on non-combatants including children. The PDF continues to monitor the situation while providing guidance to local communities on safety measures and evacuation procedures when necessary.
