A devastating drone attack targeting Rohingya refugees fleeing Myanmar claimed the lives of dozens, including families with children, on Monday. Survivors described a harrowing scene of bodies scattered across the ground as they searched for their injured and deceased relatives. The attack, which occurred near the Myanmar-Bangladesh border, is reported to be the deadliest assault on civilians in Rakhine state amid recent escalations in fighting between junta forces and rebel groups.
Tragic Losses Among Families
Among the victims were a heavily pregnant woman and her 2-year-old daughter, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence. Witnesses, including 35-year-old Mohammed Eleyas, recounted the horror of the attack. Eleyas, who lost his wife and daughter, described hearing the deafening sound of shelling as drones targeted the crowds. Another survivor, Shamsuddin, escaped with his wife and newborn son but witnessed the aftermath of the tragedy, with many dead and injured lying on the ground.
Conflicting Accusations and Uncertain Responsibility
The attack has sparked conflicting accusations between Myanmar’s military and the Arakan Army, with each side blaming the other for the deadly strike. While three witnesses pointed to the Arakan Army as responsible, the militia has denied these allegations. Reuters was unable to independently verify the exact number of casualties or determine responsibility for the attack. Videos circulating on social media showed the aftermath, with bodies and belongings scattered across muddy ground.
International Condemnation and Calls for Action
The international community has condemned the attacks, with activist groups and diplomats calling for accountability. Bob Rae, Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations and a former special envoy to Myanmar, confirmed the reports of the killings, describing the situation as “accurate.” Myanmar’s junta accused the Arakan Army of the attack, while the militia denied involvement, claiming the junta targeted Muslims who were attempting to flee without permission.
The ongoing violence has forced thousands of Rohingya to flee their homes, with many attempting dangerous crossings into Bangladesh. The United Nations and aid organizations have raised concerns over the escalating violence and its impact on civilians, particularly in the volatile Rakhine state.