Rebels Report 21 Killed in Myanmar Airstrike on Kachin Village

Overview

• The Kachin Independence Army says a jet bombed Hteelin village west of Bhamo on Thursday, killing 21 people and injuring 28, including an infant.
• The rebel group alleges the attack hit a mourning gathering, a camp for displaced people, a school, and a market.
• Independent confirmation is not available because internet access and phone service in the area are largely cut off.
• Kachin-based media posted images and video they say show bodies and damaged buildings after the strike.
• Bhamo is scheduled to vote Sunday in the military’s final election round, though the KIA claims control of downtown and argues balloting cannot occur there.