Reports

This report investigates claims of Myanmar military airstrikes on villages to assess whether they were isolated incidents or part of a broader pattern. While the State Administration Council (SAC) maintains these strikes are necessary, targeted responses to threats, Myanmar Witness found that in many cases, strikes destroyed or severely damaged villages and infrastructure in areas where civilians, including children, were reportedly present. This contradicts the SAC’s assertion that only insurgents are targeted and suggests that even so-called isolated strikes may reflect a broader, more indiscriminate use of force.

Reports described how dozens - mainly children - had been killed in an airstrike that hit a school in Sagaing’s Tabayin township, claims that were dismissed as 'fake news' by SAC-aligned sources. Myanmar Witness pieced together UGC and satellite imagery to show what really happened.

Through this vast reporting of Sagaing, Myanmar Witness has aimed to emphasise themes and tactics that show extreme violence and repetition.

A Closer Look at Allegations of Civilian Casualties and Military Tactics

Alleged airstrike kills at least 19 civilians, including children

Myanmar state run media rejects evidence of deadly airstrikes in Tamu township

Doxxing and arrests against social media users following the deadly Kanbalu airstrikes

Clashes leave religious buildings and civilian property destroyed, thousands displaced and many casualties

Damage to an IDP camp, school, religious site and homes 

Fires, airstrikes and mass displacement reported in 13 villages

At least 20 killed by airstrikes, arson and close range bullets in Pinlaung Township

Airstrikes on a Monastery and mining facilities, Kyainseikgyi Township