A powerful explosion on Sunday in Kaungtup village, located in Namhkam township in Myanmar’s Shan state near the Chinese border, killed more than 45 people and injured around 70 others, according to rescue workers and local reports.The blast occurred around midday in a building reportedly used to store explosives intended for mining and quarrying operations.Rescue teams and residents immediately began search operations amid widespread destruction.

By Sunday evening, one rescue worker reported that at least 46 bodies, including those of six children, had been recovered and sent for cremation, while 74 injured individuals were transported to a nearby township hospital.

Another local rescuer estimated that the death toll could be closer to 40 with more than 100 homes damaged, reflecting inconsistencies in early reporting.

Myanmar media outlets also cited figures ranging from 50 to 55 fatalities, while Chinese state media confirmed multiple casualties without providing exact numbers.

The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), which controls the area and is part of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, stated that gelignite explosives were stored by its economic department for mining purposes and confirmed that an investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway.Authorities noted that gelignite can become unstable if improperly stored over time.

The region has experienced ongoing conflict between ethnic armed groups and Myanmar’s central government, particularly since the 2021 military coup that triggered widespread unrest and armed resistance.The TNLA has controlled Namhkam following recent offensives in late 2023, and despite a ceasefire agreement mediated in 2024, tensions remain high.

Local authorities continue providing emergency aid, medical care, and resettlement support as investigations continue into the cause of the deadly blast.