An explosion at a building storing mining explosives in northeastern Myanmar near the Chinese border has killed at least 46 people and injured around 70 others, according to local media reports, rescue workers and a rebel group controlling the area.
The blast occurred around midday on Sunday in Kaung Tat, also reported as Kaungtup, village in Namhkam Township of Shan State, an area controlled by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).
Rescue operations were continuing into the evening as authorities and local responders worked through the aftermath of the explosion, which damaged homes and left widespread destruction.
The explosion took place at a site where large quantities of explosives used for mining and quarrying operations were stored.
Local media reported death tolls ranging from 46 to 55, while rescue workers said dozens of bodies had been recovered, including six children.
Approximately 70 people were reported injured, with many transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Rescuers also reported significant damage to nearby residential areas, with more than 100 houses affected by the blast.
Videos and images circulating on social media showed a large plume of smoke rising from the site, followed by secondary explosions and extensive structural damage.
Chinese state media also reported multiple deaths and injuries and noted that many homes were severely damaged.
The TNLA confirmed the incident in a public statement, saying explosives stored by its economic department for mining and stone quarrying operations were involved in the blast.
The group said the explosion caused “numerous casualties” among local residents but did not provide a specific death toll.
It added that an investigation into the cause of the explosion was underway and that those responsible would be held accountable.
The blast occurred in a region known for mining activity and located roughly three kilometers south of the Chinese border.
The TNLA, a member of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, has controlled the Namhkam area since a major offensive by allied ethnic armed groups in late 2023.
Although the group reached a ceasefire agreement with Myanmar’s military following China-mediated talks last year, tensions in the region remain unresolved.